top backpacking trips in california

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8 Stunningly Scenic Backpacking Destinations in California

I’m definitely biased, but I think my home state of California has some truly world-class backpacking. From rugged coastline to fascinating desert geology to the incredible high Sierra mountains, there’s something for every backpacker here in the third-largest US state.

As a lifelong Californian and avid backpacker I’ve had the pleasure of setting foot on countless trails all over this massive state. Backpacking in California is incredibly varied, and after living here for decades I still haven’t hiked every trail on my wish list. Not even close! But I am intimately familiar with some of the state’s best backpacking destinations, and in this post I’ll share them with you.

If you weren’t already dreaming about backpacking in California, you will be after reading this list! I hope it inspires a few additions to your bucket list. Happy trails!

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Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Location: eastern central and southern California

Hiking season: July – September, depending on conditions

Highlights: some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the US and possibly the world; challenging big-mountain climbs and descents; extensive trail network with many options; remoteness means few day hikers and a sense of solitude

Drawbacks: long drive from most places; permits can be hard to get; bear canisters are required for backpacking; climbing and high altitude can be challenging; mosquitos can be bad in early summer

Sequoia and Kings Canyon is truly my favorite place to go backpacking in California, and possibly the entire country. These jointly administered national parks and surrounding national forests form an immense region of towering trees, jagged granite peaks, and high alpine basins studded with crystal-clear lakes. The Sierra Crest, which forms the eastern border of these parks, boasts twelve of California’s fifteen tallest peaks !

This part of the high Sierra is vast and remote, and pretty much every backpacking trip here starts with a burly several thousand foot climb to a high pass. Bring your climbing legs and acclimate to the altitude beforehand! A permit system helps preserve a sense of solitude but can make popular routes competitive.

I first backpacked in this region while hiking the 210 mile John Muir Trail and was instantly hooked. The 65 mile High Sierra Trail is another excellent iconic route. Shorter possibilities are abundant, and the trail network lends itself especially well to loop routes of varying lengths, for example the Mineral King Loop and variations.

Death Valley National Park

Location: eastern southern California

Hiking season: spring, fall, winter at low elevations

Highlights: interesting desert landscapes and foliage; visit the lowest point in the 48 contiguous states; hike through washes and canyons; more variety than you would expect, including tall mountains

Drawbacks: not many backpacking routes; not a lot of trail (you’ll often be hiking on dirt roads or in washes); limited water; dangerously hot in summer

When the high mountains of the Sierra are blanketed in snow, dedicated backpackers turn to the desert. Death Valley National Park has relatively few trails, but its unique and surprisingly varied scenery lands it a place on my list of favorite California backpacking spots. A short 2-3 day backpacking trip is the perfect way to get to know this fascinating landscape, and there’s plenty else to see by car while you’re in the area.

Desert backpacking has its own distinct vibe; you’ll find yourself hiking in sandy washes, scrambling through canyons, and keeping an eye on your water supply. Definitely avoid backpacking in Death Valley during the heat of summer; unfortunately the park’s name rings all too true on occasion and hikers have died from heat exhaustion.

The most famous backpacking route in Death Valley is the Cottonwood Marble Canyon Loop , a 30 mile route composed of dirt roads, sandy washes, cross-country travel, and light scrambling. Bighorn Gorge is another interesting canyon route best done as an out-and-back where you hike into a base camp and explore the upper gorge with day packs.

Henry Coe State Park

Location: western northern California, near SF Bay Area

Hiking season: spring (ideal), fall, winter if conditions are dry

Highlights: plenty of solitude; the only legal dispersed camping anywhere near the Bay Area

Drawbacks: surprisingly steep and rugged, especially the fire roads; very hot in summer; more remote trails are not well-maintained; possibility for ticks and poison oak

If you live near the San Francisco Bay Area, Henry Coe State Park stands out as the largest and most rugged backpacking destination within a several-hour radius. Instead of mountains or desert, Henry Coe envelops you in the classic central California landscape of hilly grasslands, oak savanna, and forested canyons.

Unlike pretty much everywhere else in the Bay, where advance reservations are needed for specific campgrounds, Henry Coe allows dispersed camping (camp where you like, following Leave No Trace guidelines). Permits are first-come first-served and not hard to get. Go in the spring for the best wildflowers, fall for even more solitude, or perhaps even winter when conditions are dry. Summers can be very hot.

Don’t underestimate the ruggedness and remoteness of Henry Coe! Some of the “trails” are actually absurdly steel fire roads and the more remote trails aren’t frequently maintained, especially in the surprisingly remote Orestimba Wilderness at the north end of the park. Venture far enough into the park and you may go days without seeing other people, with just the coyotes and deer to keep you company.

Yosemite National Park

Location: northern California

Hiking season: June – October, depending on conditions

Highlights: world-famous scenery; easily accessible trailheads

Drawbacks: popular and very crowded; permits can be hard to get; bear canisters required; mosquitos can be bad in early summer

No list of California’s best backpacking destinations is complete without a mention of Yosemite National Park. This granite wonderland draws visitors from around the globe to its dramatic waterfalls and iconic rock faces.

The valley floor and surrounding trails can be unpleasantly crowded with day hikers, but the views of famous big-wall rock climbs like Half Dome and El Capitan are worth it. Routes like Yosemite Falls, North Dome, Olmstead Point, Half Dome Loop take in all the highlights in relatively few miles. The famous John Muir Trail starts in Yosemite Valley, and backpackers who venture a bit further into the surrounding Yosemite Wilderness are rewarded with somewhat quieter trails and some of the best alpine backpacking in the country.

Permits for backpacking in Yosemite are, unsurprisingly, highly sought after. You’ll need to apply via a lottery 24 weeks in advance, and prepare to battle the crowds if your itinerary starts from the valley floor. Bears are a big problem in Yosemite National Park, so bear canisters and proper food storage are essential here.

Location: northern California border with Nevada

Highlights: lovely alpine scenery; views of massive Lake Tahoe; easy accessibility; not too remote

Drawbacks: popular and crowded; permits can be hard to get for most popular trails; bear canisters required in Desolation Wilderness; mosquitos can be bad in early summer

The Tahoe basin is a popular year-round adventure destination, especially for skiing in winter. During summer it transforms into a sunny outdoor playground and one of the premier spots for backpacking in northern California (and a bit of Nevada, as massive Lake Tahoe straddles the border).

There’s definitely a different vibe here compared to the more remote southern Sierra. Some trails can be unpleasantly busy with day hikers and mountain bikers in peak summer months. But the accessibility also means the trails are easy to drive to and bail-out points are never far. Thus it’s a great region for newer backpackers to cut their teeth on mountain backpacking without getting in over their heads.

The most prized scenic trails lie in the so-called Desolation Wilderness, a granite wonderland that’s actually (despite its name) one of the most-visited wilderness areas in the United States. I’ve backpacked most of the trails here, including a loop of the full wilderness , and it’s a stunning place.

If you can’t snag a permit for the most popular trails, don’t worry, the entire basin is ringed with National Forest land. If you have a few weeks on your hands you can even hike around the entire lake on the Tahoe Rim Trail . It’s a rare loop-shaped thru hike combining the vibe of a longer trail with the easy logistics of finishing where you started.

Ventana Wilderness

Location: coastal central California

Hiking season: year-round depending on conditions; spring is ideal

Highlights: stunning views of rugged Big Sur coastline; relatively uncrowded; no permit needed; summit the tallest coastal mountain in the lower 48

Drawbacks: many trails are overgrown and even impassible; poison oak and ticks; can be very hot and dry in summer

The Ventana Wilderness, part of Los Padres National Forest, flies under the radar but is one of my favorite California backpacking destinations. From the rugged Big Sur coastline you’ll climb chaparral-covered hills, traverse steep valleys, and luxuriate in the shade of pine forests on quiet trails with no permit requirements.

Don’t underestimate these trails though, as there’s a price to pay for the solitude. The terrain is rugged and many trails are not well-maintained, so definitely check trail conditions or risk an epic bushwhack. This is one of few places where I usually wear long pants and sometimes long sleeves, even in the heat, to fend off scratchy brush, poison oak, and ticks.

My favorite route here is Cone Peak (Sea to Sky) , a challenging climb to the summit of the tallest coastal mountain in the lower 48. At just over 5000 feet, Cone Peak dominates the Santa Lucia Mountains and offers dizzying views over the Pacific coastline, just a few miles away as the crow flies. A much easier and more popular backpacking route is the out-and-back to Sykes Hot Springs , which can also be extended into a longer loop .

Emigrant, Mokelumne, and Carson-Iceburg Wilderness Areas

Hiking season: June – October depending on snowpack

Highlights: Sierra scenery with fewer crowds

Drawbacks: mosquitos can be bad in early summer

Between the tourist attractions of Lake Tahoe and Yosemite lies a vast network of trails through equally lovely high Sierra scenery with far fewer crowds. These three wilderness areas, and the vast national forests that surround them, can be explored and linked together via countless backpacking routes both long and short.

I especially enjoy the Mokelumne Wilderness area near Kirkwood Ski Resort, having grown up skiing in this area. The Fourth of July Lake Loop is a scenic little 14 mile loop from Highway 88 that can be extended if you want more mileage. Further south highways 4 and 108 provide access to other lovely options.

Mount San Jacinto State Wilderness

Location: southern California

Highlights: 360 degree views from San Jacinto Peak; unique mountain scenery with view over the desert floor

Drawbacks: camping limited to established group sites; big climb on the way in; high altitude and relatively quick ascent can make things harder (try to acclimate for a night at moderate elevation first)

Mount San Jacinto State Park, though relatively small, is one of the best places to go backpacking in Southern California, especially for short 2 -3 day trips. The nearly 11,000 foot summit of San Jacinto offers unique panoramic views over the sprawling desert floor, giving you a very real sense of the region’s geology. The storied Pacific Crest Trail runs through the area for those who want to experience a small taste of the famous thru hike.

Pretty much every route into the wilderness, including the popular San Jacinto Peak Loop Trail , starts with a hefty climb to high altitude. Take it slow and bring your fitness! Camping is allowed only at designated sites and you’ll need to apply for a permit in advance. Once you’re up there, enjoy the views and the relatively cooler temps as the desert cooks below.

To experience the Mount San Jacinto Wilderness without the big climb in, consider taking the incredibly scenic tram ride up from Palm Springs as shown in the San Jacinto 7 Peak Loop via Tram and Round Valley . You can camp at Round Valley and explore the area via day hikes with a lighter pack. This is a great way for beginner backpackers to get their feet wet with a less committing route.

Honorable Mentions

There are literally hundreds of great backpacking destinations in California, and those highlighted above are just the tip of the iceberg. Here are a few honorable mentions that are smaller, a bit less iconic, or that I personally haven’t explored much yet.

Trinity Alps : A very scenic but under-the-radar backpacking destination in northern California, the Trinity Alps Wilderness offers top-notch mountain backpacking without the crowds of the Sierra. Though it offers many miles of trail, there aren’t many options for longer or loop routes, and the area was recently damaged by fire in August of 2023. Still, I’ve heard great things and hope to explore it soon.

Lost Coast : This 34 mile trail in King Range Wilderness, near the coastal village of Shelter Cove, offers a unique point-to-point backpacking experience along the rugged northern California coastline. A knowledge of tide timetables is required, as well as a fairly competitive permit.

Angeles National Forest: The San Gabriel Mountains are a wonderfully rugged yet conveniently close backpacking destination near Los Angles. The region is actually far more popular with day hikers, in part due to the lack of water sources up on the ridges, but if you can pack in enough liquids you’ll enjoy the solitude come sunset.

Pacific Crest Trail : The storied PCT runs the entire length of California, over 1600 miles from border to border! Thus, wherever you may be in California there is always backpacking somewhat nearby on the PCT. Whether it’s a long section hike or an overnight out-and-back, it’s always a treat to leave footprints on this famous long-distance thru hiking route.

Did I miss your favorite place to go backpacking in California? This list is a work in progress! Let me know down below in the comments and I’ll add it.

Gear for Backpacking in California

As always, the best gear list for your backpacking trip depends on location, conditions, and your style of packing and hiking. Here are some of my personal favorites used for many miles while backpacking in California and elsewhere.

• Pack: ULA Circuit
• Sleeping quilt: Enlightened Equipment Convert
• Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
• Tarp: Six Moon Designs Haven
• Bivy: Borah Gear Ultralight Bivy
• Trekking poles: Black Diamond Carbon Distance FLZ (very lightweight)
• Shoes: Altra Lone Peak trail runners
• Stove: JetBoil MicroMo
• Bowl: Sea to Summit X Mug (collapsible, very compact)
• Water filter: Sawyer Squeeze + CNOC Vecto bag
• Shirt: Merino sun hoodie: Wuru Nuyarn , Ridge Merino Solstice or Smartwool Merino Sport
• Puffy jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (ultralight)
• Rain jacket: OR Helium (ultralight)

More Backpacking Resources

If you enjoyed this post, you might also like these:

• Bear Bag vs. Bear Canister: What’s the right choice?
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Or visit the hiking and backpacking section for lots more!

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of hiking the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and countless shorter amazing trails throughout the US and abroad. I love solitude, big views, and a good lightweight gear setup. Learn more here .

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Best 7 Beginner Backpacking Trips in California

There is no shortage of wilderness areas and public lands in the sunny state of California. The obvious consequence of this is that it can be pretty hard for an outdoor enthusiast to decide where to go next.

Table of Contents

Would you like to hike along the magnificent coastline of Point Reyes? Or do the epic granite domes of Yosemite sound like an even better destination?

If you’re a backpacking beginner and you’re looking for an ideal hiking trip in California, I’m here to help you out. I’m fully aware of the fact that all backpacking beginners not only want to immerse themselves in the wilderness but also enjoy unforgettable vistas.

Therefore, I’ve put together a list of the seven best trekking trails in California that are – for one reason or another – well-suited for backpacking beginners and which include spectacular sights and views.

How Do I Choose an Appropriate Trail For Me?

While it’s true that all people enter the world of backpacking with completely different fitness levels and skillsets, I’ve compiled a list of trails with an average hiking beginner in mind. All of these trails fit the following criteria:

• You’ll be getting a lot of “bounce for the ounce”, whether in the form of lush meadows or alpine peaks.
• Each of these adventures follows trails that are well-maintained. Boulder fields and other kinds of tricky terrain are not something you’ll have to worry about.
• Another thing you won’t have to worry about is the extreme elevation gain. Moreover, you’ll be backpacking relatively low mileage for each trip’s length.

However, this kind of activity is never completely safe – if you want to have the best possible time during your backcountry adventure, make sure to prepare yourself accordingly.

1. Trans-Catalina Trail

Photo by Chris Hunkeler via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

• Elevation gain/loss: 9,600 feet
• Length: 4 – 5 days
• Mileage: 38.5 miles roundtrip

As its name suggests, this wonderful trail crosses Catalina Island, which is one of the most astonishing rocky islands belonging to the state of California. With most of the trail not being sheltered by the sun, this particular trip is an ideal pick for an early-spring hike.

As you’re trekking past mysterious coves and majestic ridges, keep an eye out for the wildlife that roams the island, including bison. And at night, listen to the shore-crashing waves while beach-camping at the secluded Parson’s Landing campground.

What turns the Trans-Catalina Trail into an ideal choice for beginners who aren’t quite ready to give up on the amenities is the fact that this trip blends luxury island life with rugged backpacking. Quite interesting, wouldn’t you say?

Why is it Suitable for Beginners?

While the trail itself requires a bit of effort to be completed, the fact that it’s close to civilization turns it into a fantastic choice for the rookies. This is particularly true for those who have a high fitness level.

You’ll never be too far away from a town and you’ll even be able to purchase a fire starter, a bundle of firewood, and a water-stocked locker at one of the campsites, namely the aforementioned Parson’s Landing.

Another thing worth mentioning here is that the rangers can be found at most campsites, as well as that you’ll be passing multiple restaurants along the way. In my opinion, the best of them is at Airport-in-the-Sky and its name is DC-3 Grill. Buying food in places such as these is a great way to cut down on your backpack weight.

While the Trans-Catalina Trail can be somewhat steep, most of the trekking takes place on fire roads. In other words, you won’t have to deal with rough, uneven paths. The section that leads to Parson’s Landing is considered to be the most strenuous one.

If you’d like to make this journey as easy as possible, I would recommend setting up a basecamp at the campsite at Two Harbors and then just day-hiking to the aforementioned Parson’s Landing without carrying all of your stuff.

Permits & Logistics

Catalina campsites fill up quite quickly, so it’s extremely important to book everything in advance. During the weekends, there is a 2-night minimum at all campgrounds. However, you can easily waive this requirement by giving a call to the visitor center at Two Harbors.

You can obtain your free permit to walk this trail at the same place. Another place to get it would be in the town of Avalon, more precisely in the town’s Conservancy House. But even if you don’t pick up this free permit, you will still be able to hike the Trans-Catalina Trail as long as you have your camping reservation.

The fact that you’ll need to get to this island (and return from it) by ferry is probably the most unique aspect of this adventure. I recommend taking the San Pedro – Avalon ferry ride when going to the island and the Two Harbors – San Pedro ferry ride when returning from it.

2. Half Dome, Yosemite

• Elevation gain/loss: 5,300 feet
• Length: 3 days
• Mileage: 16 miles out-and-back

Almost every person who has ever seen photos of the world-famous Yosemite National Park has also seen the magnificent Half Dome, a massive, curved monolith that’s located in the middle of the park.

While mountaineers congregate at the monolith’s vertical face, Half Dome’s rounded back is a great spot for day hikers. This is because it has a set of cables that allows backpackers to (relatively) easily get to the summit of this massive rock.

A lot of enthusiastic trekkers try to complete this adventure in a single day. However, in my opinion, a much more enjoyable way to tackle Half Dome as a backpacker would be to embark on an overnight journey and turn the whole thing into a sort of communal camping experience. Once you climb up to the top, you can get back to the camp and chill by the gorgeous Merced River.

Even though this exciting hiking trip feels like a genuine adventure, it is still one where you’ll be able to keep the daily mileage low. This is because it can be broken into a 3-day excursion, which is something I would definitely recommend doing if you’re a backpacking beginner.

It’s a classic itinerary that takes folks past world-famous Yosemite spots, such as Nevada Falls and Vernal Falls. On the second day of your journey, you’ll be able to leave the backpack behind and climb the cables mentioned above while carrying only your daypack. If you don’t have one, one of our top backpacks for the Camino will also serve you well in California.

One thing worth mentioning here is that those who decide to spend the night at the Little Yosemite Valley Camp can get up earlier and reach the summit before the crowds do.

A lot of hiking trails in this national park require hikers to carry bear canisters in order to protect their food. However, the campground I mentioned above – Little Yosemite Valley Park – will allow you to store your food in their own bear boxes. This completely removes the need to carry a heavy bear canister during your entire trekking adventure.

Unfortunately, Half Dome permits are all but easy to obtain. Therefore, maybe the best course of action for you would be to simply join a guided group hike. But if you still want to secure a permit for an unguided trip, you can totally do so – you only have to visit the website of the National Park Service and submit your application there.

Make sure to make a reservation as soon as you can. This is, after all, an incredibly popular hike. You will need to secure both a Half Dome permit (which costs $10 per one person) and a regular wilderness permit.

Another way to go about this would be to try to secure a “first-come, first-served” permit one day before your hike. Those who decide to approach the matter in this manner should definitely come up with a backup plan first, though. Keep in mind that the staff of the national park can always recommend you other hiking trails available on that day.

3. Point Reyes Coast Loop

• Elevation gain/loss: Varies
• Length: 2 – 3 days
• Mileage: 4 – 22 miles

One of the world’s most beautiful trekking destinations, the coastline of Central California provides outdoor enthusiasts with coastal bluffs, rolling meadows, and sandy beaches.

In Point Reyes National Seashore, trekkers traverse prolific forests and have plenty of opportunities to enjoy unforgettable vistas, particularly the ones offering views of the marvelous Pacific Ocean.

During your hike, you will also be able to spot a lot of regional wildlife, including shorebirds, elks, and elephant seals, among other animals. What makes the entire experience truly special is this very specific mix of misty hills and sunny beaches – it doesn’t get much more Californian than that.

One thing worth mentioning here is that a lot of folks like hiking the Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop, but this particular trail is often closed due to frequent wildfires. While it’s still possible to access a lot of other Point Reyes campgrounds, such as Wildcat, Glen, and Coast, engaging in a loop hike is certainly a bit more challenging. You will need really good hiking shoes .

One of the best things about Point Reyes is that it’s quite close to San Francisco. In other words, this hiking spot can be quickly and effortlessly reached from a major metropolitan area.

Furthermore, the trail system of the Point Reyes National Seashore park allows everyone to easily create a short or long itinerary. Also, the area’s elevation profiles are quite mellow, particularly when compared to mountainous regions (the Yosemite National Park from above is a good example).

For the Point Reyes Coast Loop trail, you’ll only have to pack a backup purification system – each of the campgrounds has potable water. Another thing worth mentioning is that all trekkers also have access to food storage boxes, barbecues, and picnic tables.

Spending a night at one of Point Reyes’ campgrounds costs around $20 per person and everything can be reserved in advance. Make sure to pay a visit to the Bear Valley Visitor Center if you’re planning a last-minute trip – there, you’ll be able to see if there are any available walk-up sites. If you plan on camping, and not just backpacking, check out our wild camping checklist .

But still, I think that the best course of action would be to simply make the reservations in advance. This is particularly important if you’re planning to hike during holidays or during the weekend.

4. Tuolumne Meadows Area, Yosemite

• Elevation gain/loss: 1,300 feet
• Length: 3 – 4 days
• Mileage: 20 miles roundtrip

The things that define Yosemite’s majestic Tuolomne area are pinnacle spires, dome-shaped mountains, and, of course, expansive green meadows. In the Grand Canon of Tuolomne, backcountry enthusiasts are able to see water flowing freely over the slabs of granite, creating spectacular cascades.

The best way to experience this area is to start the hike in Curry Village and then follow the Tuolomne River as flows through the gorgeous meadows until it reaches the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne.

Make sure to check out the waterfalls in the region, namely the California Falls, Le Conte Falls, and the Waterwheel Falls. As their name suggests, the Waterwheel Falls are named so due to the “waterwheel” phenomenon, i.e. the water being ejected into the air while hitting the rocks.

While both the Half-Dome trip I described above and this particular multi-day journey both take place in Yosemite, each of them offers a completely different experience. Those wishing to see a not-so-crowded side of this national park should definitely opt for the high country.

When compared to the Yosemite Valley, the Tuolumne Meadows area isn’t as crowded and features relatively flat-relief landscapes combined with high-elevation trailheads. The views are breathtaking and there’s plenty of water.

Furthermore, the wildlife of the Tuolumne Meadows region isn’t as accustomed to people. While this makes taking photos of animals a bit more challenging, it also means that you won’t have to worry about hungry bears creeping into the camp.

The campground that is situated next to this route (and in which you’ll probably spend a night or two) has solar-powered outhouses and treated water. In other words, full backcountry comfort! There are also bear boxes here, which is something that can’t be said for every campsite in the Yosemite National Park. This removes the need to carry inconvenient and heavy bear canisters.

Those who wish to spend a night or two in the Yosemite National Park need to obtain a permit for doing so. Reserving one in advance is always recommended.

However, it is worth mentioning that visiting the ranger station right before your journey brings the ability to obtain a first-come-first-served permit – if you get there in the morning and before everybody else does, that is. Do not expect to obtain a last-minute permit if you’re trekking during the holidays or weekends.

5. Mammoth Crest

• Elevation gain/loss: 2,000 feet
• Mileage: 24 miles out-and-back

Do you want to get away from the Yosemite crowds? If so, heading over to the Eastern Sierras is one of your best options. This particular mountain range, which comprises the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, is home to El Cap and Half Dome, but it definitely has a lot more to offer.

Embarking on a 3-day Mammoth Crest trekking journey is an amazing way to immerse yourself in this stunning region and experience its wonders – like the granite peaks – in the best way possible.

There is something amazing to see at every turn – from sparkling blue alpine lakes to eye-catching streams that will make you stop in wonder. Throughout this entire voyage, you’ll be getting beautiful panoramic views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Minaret Range, and the rest of the Sierras.

While it’s true that rough mountain terrain can be quite difficult for those who don’t have much experience in backpacking, I think that tackling this trip over the span of three days is more than manageable.

Once the camp is set up, you’ll be able to get rid of your gear until it’s time to move out. On the second day, you’ll be day-hiking from the camp with a daypack in order to explore the surrounding region. In other words, the time trekking with a huge pack on your back is minimal.

And finally, even though this particular trail is difficult, you can be sure that the views are going to distract you the whole time. Make sure to prepare a nutritious and filling meal for your adventure. Check out our day hike meal ideas as well as our pick for the best backpacking stove.

Those wishing to engage in overnight trips in the Sierra National Forest cannot do so without a permit, which becomes available for obtaining half a year before the date of the hike.

Another item all trekkers are required to have is an approved bear canister, which you’ll be using for your provisions and all scented objects.

6. Lassen Volcanic Cinder Cone Loop

• Elevation gain/loss: 4,000 feet
• Length: 4 days
• Mileage: 24-mile loop

So, you’re ready for your very first hiking adventure in California. You bought all the necessary gear and you can’t wait to explore the backcountry. But something just doesn’t feel quite right – you’d really like to see the wild and only the wild, i.e you don’t want to bump into other trekkers every few miles along the way.

If this is the case, the Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is located in the northern part of the Sierra Nevada Range, is one of your best options. This mountainous wonderland is a phenomenal destination for all those interested in seeing remnants of past volcanic activity.

What is more, there is an ongoing geothermal activity in this area, and there are also far fewer people in it than in Yosemite park – it’s a great choice for the backpacking beginners who want to stay away from the crowds.

The fact that you’re a complete rookie in the world of backpacking doesn’t mean that you have to walk a trail that is riddled with other outdoor enthusiasts. The Lassen Volcanic National Park provides hikers – whether they’re experienced or not – with breathtaking scenery, mild elevation gain, and excellent trekking trails.

Another thing that turns this trip into a terrific choice for the backpacking amateurs is the short daily mileage. You’ll have more than enough time to read books under the shadows of ancient volcanoes, take dips in the area’s magnificent lakes, or just relax wherever and whenever you want to.

Those who decide to walk this trail unguided will be pleased to know that this park’s free permit system is exceptionally easy to navigate. All that one has to do is to pay a visit to a self-registration station, fill out an overnight permit, and then just follow the usual leave-no-trace principles.

And while it’s great that you won’t have to make reservations in advance for this adventure, one not-so-great thing is that you will have to get an approved bear canister and store all of your provisions in it.

7. Redwoods National & State Parks

• Elevation gain/loss: Minimal
• Mileage: Around 7 miles out-and-back

Due to the fact that they’re easily accessed, the trekking campsites of the Redwood National Park are among the best in the entire country.

Even though it’s true that one’s options are quite limited when it comes to multi-day hikes, forming an ideal backpacking adventure by linking several trails together is entirely possible.

Here, you’ll be able to explore meandering riverways, coastal bluffs, and towering redwood forests. One thing is certain – sleeping under these massive trees is guaranteed to make you think about how small we – the humans – are when compared to some of the planet’s oldest species.

A lot of campsites, such as the Elam Backcountry Camp or DeMartin Backcountry Camp, are just a few miles away from the highway. You will not, however, have to worry about the noise – the gigantic trees effortlessly block the noise of the traffic.

This park’s service provides outdoor enthusiasts with informative brochures that let them know what they can expect in the area. Most campgrounds are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and food storage lockers.

Before starting the hike in the RNSP, you will have to obtain a free backcountry permit. As you can already guess, these are given by the Park Service.

However, there’s a big difference between RNSP and other national parks when it comes to campsite reservations – here, you will not be able to reserve your spot months in advance. You can only do so during the reservation period which starts two weeks before your hike and ends two days before it.

I love hiking, backpacking, and camping. From the Camino de Santiago to the West Highland Way in Scotland or simply a great day hike on the weekend. Hiking refreshes me, my mind, and keeps my body reasonably fit. So far I have walked three Camino routes and many other long distance hikes in the UK, Canada, and around the rest of Europe. One of the best was my hike up Ben Nevis.

1 thought on “Best 7 Beginner Backpacking Trips in California”

This was a wonderful review of trails for beginners. This brings back memories of me starting my backpacking adventures. Please keep bring new adventures from around the US and the world. Thank You, Tom Monroe

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Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in California

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California has so many public lands and wilderness areas that it’s hard to decide where to visit next. Do you want to take in the iconic granite domes of Yosemite or soak in the sun along the rolling coastline of Point Reyes?

If you are looking for the perfect beginner backpacking trip in California, you’ve come to the right place. We know that when you’re backpacking you want to immerse yourself in the wilderness, but you’re also going for the fantastic views, right? So, we’ve compiled a list of seven of our favorite trails that — for one reason or another — are well-suited for new backpackers and don’t skimp on the sights.

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how to choose an appropriate trail

While each new backpacker is entering into the sport with a different set of skills and fitness levels, we’ve crafted a list of trips with all beginner backpackers in mind. These trips fit a few criteria:

• You’ll hike relatively low-mileage for the length of the trip.
• The trails don’t have extreme elevation gain for the region.
• They travel on well-maintained trails and avoid tricky terrain like boulder fields. 
• You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck, whether in the form of peaks, alpine lakes, or lush meadows.

However, backpacking is never easy (or else we’d never do it!) — so,  if you want to maximize your fun, be sure to train for your backpacking trip .

1. Half Dome, Yosemite

Mileage: 16 miles out-and-back  | Length: 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 5,300 feet

If you’ve ever seen photos of Yosemite National Park, you’ve probably seen the giant curved monolith, Half Dome . While rock climbers flock to the vertical face, the rounded back of Half Dome has a set of cables that allow day hikers and backpackers to climb to its summit. Many adventurous hikers tackle the trail in one day, but embarking on an overnight backpacking trip makes this an enjoyable journey with a fun, communal backcountry camp experience. Once you’ve summited Half Dome, you can return to camp and relax by the chilly Merced River.

Why is it great for a beginner?

This exciting backpacking trip feels like an adventure but you keep the miles relatively low each day. Breaking up this trail into a three-day excursion lessens the difficulty level that the day-hike offers.

This classic itinerary takes you past some iconic Yosemite sights — like Vernal and Nevada Falls. On the second day, you’ll ditch your backpacking pack and climb the Half Dome cables with only a day pack. Plus, when you sleep at the Little Yosemite Valley Camp, you can wake up early and beat the crowds to the summit.

While many backpacking trails in Yosemite necessitate that you carry bear canisters to protect your food from black bears, the Little Yosemite Valley camp has bear boxes where you can store your food — eliminating the need to lug around a heavy plastic container for your entire trip.

logistics and permits

Half Dome permits are incredibly hard to secure, so you’ll benefit from joining a guided backpacking trip . However, you can apply for permits for an unguided trip through the National Park Service . Because of the popularity of this trek, you should try to make a reservation as soon as they become available.  You’ll need to obtain both a wilderness permit and a Half Dome permit. Half Dome permits are $10 per person.

Otherwise, you can try to get a first-come, first-served walk-up permit the day before your trip. If you go this route, you should remain flexible and have an alternate itinerary as a backup plan. The National Park staff can also recommend trails that are available on the day of your trip.

Guided Trip Options

Wildland Trekking offers a three-day Half Dome trek as a guided backpacking adventure package with expert guides, gear, meals, transportation and more — all included! If you’re looking to up the challenge, we also offer Half Dome as part of our Classic Summits of Yosemite itinerary. This amazing four-day trip starts off Tioga Pass, so you’ll experience the high country of the Sierra Nevada mountains. You’ll traverse the Park, crossing the exhilarating Cloud’s Rest summit, climbing the Half Dome cables, and ending in the Yosemite Valley.

2. trans-Catalina Trail

Mileage: 38.5 miles roundtrip | Length: 4 – 5 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 9,600 feet

The Trans-Catalina Trail crosses Catalina Island, a stunning, rocky island off the coast of Southern California. This is a fantastic early-spring trek, as much of the trail is unsheltered from the sun. As you hike along ridges and past sailboat-spotted coves, keep an eye out for the bison that roam the island. At night, enjoy the secluded beach camping at Parson’s Landing as you listen to the waves crash on the shore. This trip blends rugged backpacking with luxury island life, so it is perfect for backpackers who aren’t ready to give up all the amenities quite yet.

While the trail is difficult, the proximity to civilization makes this a great beginner route — especially for those with a high level of fitness. You’re never far from a town, and many of the campgrounds have the option to pay for rangers stock your “fox box” with firewood, and a fire starter, as well as water at the only campground that doesn’t have potable water– Parson’s Landing. Rangers are onsite at most of the campgrounds. En route, you’ll pass multiple restaurants, including Airport-in-the-Sky Restaurant at one of the highest points on the island. If you plan to buy food at the restaurant and in Two Harbors, you can cut down your pack weight, but make sure you get to the airport early for lunch as it closes at 4pm.

While the trails can be steep, much of the hiking is on fire roads, so you don’t have to worry about overly rugged trails. The most strenuous section is to Parson’s Landing. If you’re looking for an easier backpacking trip, you can set up basecamp at the Two Harbors campground and day hike to Parson’s Landing without all of your gear.

With all the Catalina campgrounds, you will need to book your campsites in advance, as they do fill up. While there is a two-night minimum at all campsites on weekends, hikers can have this requirement waived by calling the Two Harbors Visitor Center.

Additionally, you can pick up a free permit to hike the Trans-Catalina Trail when you get to the island — either at the Conservancy House in Avalon or the Visitor’s Center in Two Harbors. However, your camping reservations will serve as your hiking permit if you do not check in.

One unique aspect of this trip is the need for a ferry ride to and from Catalina Island . We recommend taking the ferry to Avalon from San Pedro to begin your adventure and returning to San Pedro from the ferry terminal at Two Harbors.

3. Tuolumne Meadows area, Yosemite

Mileage: 20 miles roundtrip | Length: 3 – 4 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,300 feet with a pack ( + 1,700 as a day hike)

The Tuolumne region of Yosemite National Park is defined by expansive green meadows, dome-shaped mountains, and the pinnacle spires of the Cathedral Range. Water flows freely through the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, where you can witness cascades tumbling down silver slabs of granite. On our Yosemite Alpine Meadows and Waterfalls Trek , you can see some of the best that it has to offer on a moderate trip. While both this multi-day hike and the Half Dome trek both take place in Yosemite National Park, they offer dramatically different experiences. If you wish to see a lesser-visited side of this iconic destination, we recommend visiting the high country.

Unlike the Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows has high-elevation trailheads with relatively flat relief landscapes and far fewer crowds. Water is plentiful and the views are outstanding. 

The campsite along this route (where you’ll stay for two nights) has treated water and solar-powered outhouses for ultimate backcountry comfort. Plus, unlike many areas in Yosemite National Park, you’ll have access to bear boxes at camp, so you won’t have to carry bear canisters which are heavy and inconvenient.  In addition, the wildlife is not as accustomed to humans in the less-visited Tuolumne area, so you’re less likely to have a bear sneaking into your camp at night looking for an easy, human food snack.

You’ll need to obtain a permit to stay overnight in the backcountry of Yosemite National Park. We recommend you reserve a permit in advance, however, some first-come-first-served permits are available if you visit the ranger station the morning before your intended trip. If you’re traveling during the weekends or holidays, don’t expect to get a last-minute permit.

Wildland Trekking offers Tuolumne Meadows backpacking trips as a guided package with expert guides, gear, meals, transportation and more all included! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced backpacker who wants someone else to do the planning for a change, you won’t regret joining a Wildland trip in Yosemite.

4. Point Reyes Coast Loop

Mileage: 4 – 22 miles  | Length: 2 – 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: varies

The Central California coastline is a magnificent backpacking destination because it provides hikers access to sandy beaches, rolling meadows, and coastal bluffs. In Point Reyes National Seashore, you’ll travel through lush forests lined with green ferns and arrive at vistas with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. On your trek, you can spot animals like elephant seals, elk, and shorebirds. To add to the magic, you may experience a mix of sunny beaches and misty hills — so perfectly Californian.

And the Bear Valley to Coast Camp loop,  which is very popular among backpackers is open again after being closed recently due to wildfires. This loop connects many of the iconic campsites and allows for easy, one car logistics.

Point Reyes is only 30 miles north of San Francisco, so it is one of the most accessible backpacking destinations from a major metropolitan area. The trail system in this Park allows you to create a relatively low-mileage itinerary. Plus, the elevation profiles are more mellow than mountain destinations like Yosemite.

Each backcountry campsite has potable water, so you only need to bring a backup water purification system. You’ll also have access to a picnic table, bbq, and food storage box at camp each night.

Each hike-in campsite is $20/night and you can reserve them in advance . If you’re planning a last-minute trip, you can stop by the Bear Valley Visitor Center to see if they have any walk-up sites available. However, we recommend making reservations, especially if you’re backpacking on the weekend or during holidays.

If you can’t get permits or want a more rugged and remote experience on the California coast, you can also try out the Lost Coast  farther north of the Bay Area. The backpacking trails on this remote coastline offer extreme solitude as well as rugged hiking over mountains and on the sand where the tide controls much of where and when you can hike.  Wildland Trekking offers a great trip that traverses the Lost Coast where our expert guides will handle the all the planning and meals, including the tide charts to ensure safe passage across the beaches.

5. Lassen Volcanic Cinder Cone Loop

Mileage: 24-mile loop | Length: 4 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 4,000 feet

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure for your first backpacking trip in California, this is it. At the northern tip of the Sierra Nevada Range, you can find Lassen Volcanic National Park — a high alpine wonderland with geothermal activity and remnants of past volcanic activity. On this four-day trek , you’ll hike past alpine lakes and climb to the summit of a cinder cone.

Just because you’re new to backpacking doesn’t mean you have to choose a route that will be riddled with crowds. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers excellent backpacking trails with mild elevation gain and stunning scenery. The short daily mileage allows you ample time to relax, take a dip in the lakes, or read your book under the shadow of old volcanoes.

If you choose to go unguided, the free permit system is a breeze to navigate. Just fill out your overnight permit at one of the self-registration stations and be sure to follow LNT principles ! No advanced reservations are necessary. Getting to Lassen is a little bit of a haul; depending on where you are coming from Sacramento, the Bay Area, or Reno, NV are your best points of entry.

When you’re backpacking in Lassen Volcanic National Park, you must store all your food in an approved bear canister.

Lassen Volcano National Park is not to be missed on any adventurer’s bucket list, but the remoteness of the location can make backpacking the park, especially if it’s your first time visiting, a little intimidating. So if you’d like to get a taste of this area before you trek into the backcountry, your can join Wildland Trekking’s basecamp tour in Lassen Volcano National Park and experience what this place has to offer. We provide an excellent mix of luxury camping and rugged hiking all with the best guides in the business.  

6. Mammoth Crest

 Mileage: 24 miles out-and-back | Length: 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,000 feet with pack (+ 2,000 ft with day pack)

Escape the crowds in Yosemite and head to the Eastern Sierras ! This mountain range is home to Half Dome and El Cap, but it sure has a lot more to offer. The three-day Mammoth Crest backpacking trip will immerse you in high mountain country so you can experience the grandeur of these granite peaks. You’ll camp near sparkling blue alpine lakes and travel over Duck Pass at 10,800 feet. Throughout your entire trip, you’ll get sweeping views of the Minaret Range, the Mammoth Lakes Basin, and the rest of the Sierras.

While rugged mountain terrain can be tough for beginner backpackers, this three-day trek is manageable. Once you’ve set up camp, you’ll leave your gear behind until you hike out. On day two, you’ll day hike from camp to check out the surrounding area. So, the time hiking with a pack is minimal. And although the trail is tough, the views will distract you the entire time.

You’ll need a permit for any overnight trip in the Sierra National Forest . Permits become available six months before the trip date. You’ll also need to bring an approved bear canister to contain all your food and scented items.

Wildland Trekking offers this Mammoth Crest trip as a guided backpacking adventure package with expert guides, gear, meals, and transportation included. These guided tours take away much of the stress of planning a trip into the backcountry and allow you to truly enjoy and take in your surroundings.

7. Redwoods National and State Parks

Mileage: 7 + miles out-and-back | Length: 2 – 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: minimal

Redwood National Park has some of the best beginner backpacking campsites in the country because of their easy access. While your options are limited for a long multiday trip, you can easily link together trails to form the perfect backpacking overnight. Explore towering redwood forests, coastal bluffs, and meandering riverways. As you sleep beneath these giants, you can’t help but feel the majesty of some of the tallest trees on Earth.

Many camps, like the DeMartin Backcountry Camp and Elam Backcountry Camp , are mere miles from the highway (but the redwoods block all the noise.) The Park Service has detailed brochures for each backcountry camp, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Most campsites are equipped with food storage lockers, fire pits, and even picnic tables, so they almost feel like front-country campgrounds.

You can choose your own adventure as you determine what amenities you want on your first backpacking trip. Do you only want to hike in a quarter of a mile before setting up camp? You can do that! Browse the list of backcountry campsites and then get hiking!

You’ll need to obtain a free backcountry permit from the Park Service before starting your hike. However, unlike many national parks, you cannot reserve these sites months in advance. The reservation period is open from two weeks to two days before starting your backpacking trip.

8. Joshua Tree National Park

Mileage: 8+ miles point to point | Length: 2 – 4 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: minimal

Joshua Tree National Park is a lesser known desert gem tucked away in Southern California’s inland, not far from the metropolitan areas of San Diego and Los Angeles. With it’s iconic Joshua Trees, groves of cactus and yucca, and abundance of desert wildlife, this park is not one to miss. Joshua Tree offers backpacking trails ranging from easy to moderate to difficult, depending on what you’re up for, with many that provide stunning views of sandstone and granite monoliths and secluded desert oases.

Why is it great for a beginner?  

Joshua Tree can be a great destination for your first backpacking trip because of the ease of following the trail and the opportunity to pick whatever difficulty of trail you’d like. Boy Scout Trail is a mere eight miles with little elevation. You can even set up your tent after just one mile of walking and set out to explore with a lighter day pack.  

If you’re very in shape, but just new to backpacking, try out the California Riding and Hiking Trail or the trail to Conejo Wells and Eagle Mountain which are more moderate options.  Despite being a desert, Joshua Tree does not skimp on those backcountry views that every beginner backpackers (and backpacker of every experience level) wants to see. Don’t discount this fantastic national park just because deserts aren’t typically your go-to destination. With mighty rock formations, stunning night skies, flourishing flora and fauna, and some of the best open vistas in the area, you won’t regret taking your first backpacking trip in Joshua Tree. 

Logistics and Permits  

Joshua Tree comes with some hefty logistics, but lucky for you, they aren’t concerning  food storage or permits. There aren’t bears in Joshua Tree, so bear canisters are not required. Plus, this is one of the only parks where you do not need a permit to backpack! Instead, backpackers are required to register at one of the backcountry registration boards scattered throughout the park so that ranges roughly know who is in the backcountry and where you are (and so they don’t tow your car).

Despite the ease of these logistics, Joshua Tree does requires some additional advanced planning. There are minimal water sources at campgrounds and none in the backcountry, as all natural water sources (which are scarce) are reserved for wildlife. If your trip is more than a few days long, you will need to drop a water cache in advance, which can be a tricky process, especially as your life might depend on doing it correctly.

Guided Trip options

Because of the desert logistics involved with backpacking in Joshua Tree, a guided tour for a first time trip would be a great option for those new to backpacking. You can check out Wildland Trekking’s backpacking trip in Joshua Tree  that has some difficult milage and elevation, but would be just fine for an adventurous beginner. We’ll take care of all the logistics, including water and meals, so that you can get a taste of what desert backpacking is like.  

All-inclusive Backpacking Adventures

About Hannah Singleton

Hannah is a content strategist, writer, and guide for Wildland Trekking Company. She was born and raised on the East Coast but currently resides in Salt Lake City, UT where she spends her time exploring the wonders of the Rocky Mountain West. You can check out more of her freelance writing at www.hannah-singleton.com.

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Backpacking In California: 21 Amazing Spots You Must Visit

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Our two favorite things to do in the outdoors in California is hike and camp. Why not combine the two with a backpack camping trip? We know camping in Southern California is very popular with families to couples and folks with their dogs, but for the more adventurous, finding cool spots for backpacking in California is even more exciting.

There are some amazing spots for backpacking in California, from the Bay Area of San Francisco to Southern California and everywhere in between. Some favorite places for backpack camping include Joshua Tree , the Lake Tahoe area, Yosemite National Park and the Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park areas. Much of these wilderness areas are more ‘hard core backpacking’ for those with experience and the legs to carry themselves further than a couple of mile hike.

For those of you who are new to this outdoor adventure, we share relatively easy, doable backpacking trails here in California to consider for your first (or second or third!) backpacking camping trip with or without kids. As we explore more of the backcountry camping options throughout California, we will update this list.

Don’t miss our top tips and backpacking hacks for beginners !

Jump to a Heading Below

21 Overnight Spots for Backpacking in California 

Are you looking to get out into the backcountry?  It has become one of our favorite past times to really get off grid and see some really remarkable landscapes that just wouldn’t be possible on day trips. Below we share some easy beginner trails as well as some longer hikes even a few segments of the JMT that can be done on short stints.

Crystal Cove State Park

The trails are busy during the day with those on a day hike, but once the sun sets, this becomes your little oasis of nature. Crystal Cove State Park is one of the best family friendly backpacking trips as it’s a short trail, meaning you can pack it out and get back home pretty quickly if it all falls apart.  Note, there is little shade at the camping area, which can be very hot during the summer months.  Also, as with most backcountry campsites, there is no fire allowed other than a camp stove. 

Catalina Island Backpack Camping

Don’t despair though, there are options for those without the stamina to go for so long! For the shorter options, you can take the ferry to Two Harbors, where you will hike 5 miles from Two Harbors to Little Harbor. Little Harbor Campground was rated “One of the Best Campgrounds in the West” by Sunset Magazine, so it’s popular and requires advance reservations.

Backpack camping at Catalina does take a bit of advance preparation since you have to take the boat across in advance and camping is allowed only in the established campgrounds, which do require reservations. If Little Harbor is full, you could attempt to hike to Parsons Landing which is a bit further (around 7 miles one way). For both of these sites you can reserve water and firewood in a locker that will be waiting for you. For Little Harbor you can also have an ice chest with food delivered as an added bonus. This is a wonderful addition to help ease your load. Find out all you need to backpack Catalina Island on our ultimate guide .

Channel Islands Camping

We recommend this as a great starter backpack camping trip since you have to pack in and out all of your stuff, but you don’t necessarily have to hike that far from where the boat drops you off! It helps you learn what is needed for backpacking camping, how much weight you can carry comfortably without putting too much stress on your body carrying it a long distance. 

There is one established campground on each of the islands: above the Landing Cove on Santa Barbara (.25 mile, steep uphill), on the east islet of Anacapa (up stairs about .5 mile hike), at Scorpion Canyon on Santa Cruz (.5 mile flat hike), at Water Canyon on Santa Rosa (1.5 miles from pier, flat), and above Cuyler Harbor on San Miguel (1 mile; steep uphill).

In addition to the established campgrounds, there is limited backcountry camping options as well. Del Norte campsite near Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island is the only option for year round backcountry camping and is about 3.5 miles hike from Prisoners Harbor. Also, during certain times of year, backcountry beach camping is allowed on Santa Rosa Island, but the nearest site is about a 9 mile hike.

Read up more about what you need to bring with you, how to make reservations and how to purchase boat transfers here . 

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Backpacking camping at San Jacinto is a great option even with young kids.  There are such beautiful meadows and alpine areas you will feel miles away from civilization even if you take the easy way and take the tram up! Once you arrive to the top of the tram, you will need to hike around 2.3 miles to Round Valley . Here you will find water (usually, but bring enough and filtration) and several beautiful established campsites. This is an amazing first backpacking option when the tram is operating and the restaurant is open – meaning you could even make it a multi-night campout without worrying about bringing so much food since you could always pop into the Mountain station for refreshments! 

Note: You will need a permit and that permit at the time of writing goes through the regular mail! Applications can be found here . 

Hoegee’s Camp in the San Gabriel Mountains

Another great option for those of us looking for backpack trips in Southern California is Hoegees Camp. This backcountry campsite lies along Winter Creek in the canyon adjacent to Sturtevant Falls . Both trails begin from Chantry Flats. (Note: An adventure pass is required to park at Chantry Flats).

And while the hike to Hoegees Camp does not offer a waterfall like Sturtevant Falls, it does offer a 4.25-mile out-and-back hike through a lush canyon with only about 700 feet of elevation change. Hoegee’s Camp was a resort for hikers back before the 50s. Now it offers vault toilets, picnic tables and fire rings on 14 first come first serve sites. These are free and available year round. 

The directions are fairly straightforward. Start at Chantry Flats and descend along the paved trail for 0.6 miles to Roberts Camp. After crossing the bridge at the bottom of the pavement, you will come to a junction; make sure to turn left onto Lower Winter Creek Trail at this point. You will pass a few wilderness homes and concrete dams along the way before arriving to Hoegee’s Camp.

Gould Mesa Campground

This campground is a first come first serve site, so you would need to get there super early on a weekend to make sure you procure a site. Week days are still busy, but less competitive. Fires are allowed in the established fire pits and there is one pit toilet for your use.

Piedra Blanca Wilderness Camp

When you are here, you have several options on where to go backpacking. You can go towards the Piedra Blanca Camp which is the left at the trail junction or you can head around 4.2 miles towards Bear Creek Campground. Again these are popular spots for first timers so you won’t be alone out here. 

You will need an Adventure Pass to park at the trailhead. Note: the parking lot fills up VERY quickly on weekends, so plan to arrive no later than 8 a.m. Check in with the Ojai Ranger station before you head out to check on current fire restrictions.

Want a packing list for your next car camping trip with kids? Download and print our extensive family camping packing list here !

Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains

Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains, located in northeast San Diego County is probably not best for your first backpacking trip, but is a great one when you want a little more challenge. To backpack camp at Barker Valley, you will need to obtain a permit from Cleveland National Forest. The best time of year to camp here is late spring when there is water in the creek and it is not too cold. 

The hike isn’t too strenuous, however, you must hike down about 1000 feet in elevation to the river to camp, which means you will hike back up it when you leave. It clocks in at about 6.5 miles total, so it’s not over the top strenuous, but also not one of the easiest.  Once you work up to this type of backpacking camping trip, you may never go back to the short and simple hike-in spots! Note: This area is notably colder than you think, so pack for cooler weather! 

Joshua Tree Backcountry Camping

The rule here for off grid camping is as long as you are 500 feet from any trail and 1 mile from a road and not on day use land, you are good to go. Make sure that you are also very good at leave no trace. One recommended location is to take the Boy Scout trail and camp west of it. 

In addition to the camping options inside the park, there is also dispersed camping just on the outskirts of the actual park. Most campers suggest heading to the 29 Palms area for BLM land. If you need more information on what to do while in Joshua Tree or 29 Palms , we have you covered. We have spent so much time here exploring from when my son was a toddler to a pre-teen!

Cedar Glen Backcountry Camp (aka IceHouse Trail)

Cedar Glen Backcountry Camp in the San Bernardino Mountains is a backcountry camp located about 2.75 miles and about 1,200 feet in elevation from the Icehouse Trailhead (following the Chapman Trail at the split). While this camp is higher elevation, the hike isn’t too strenuous for those carrying their gear. The camp area has space for a group as well as smaller more covered up areas away from the trail. There are no established markers (like fire rings) for camp however. 

To camp here you will need to obtain a free permit from the Mount Baldy Visitor Center (909.982.2829). The only fires permitted at the camp are camp stoves also with a prearranged permit. Even though this camp doesn’t have any amenities, it makes a good base for hiking in the area or to try out your backcountry camping skills. 

Horsethief Canyon to Pine Valley Creek

Horsethief Canyon Trailhead runs through Cleveland National Forest’s Pine Creek Wilderness and is perfect for backpacking at any one of the shady campsites near Pine Valley Creek. This is a relatively easy hike both into and out of the canyon, with easy access to water, making this a perfect backpacking trip for newbies to get their first taste of backcountry camping.

Follow the trail to around 1.5 miles, where the trail veers away from Horsethief Creek and approaches Pine Valley Creek. Once you reach the banks of the creek at 1.6 miles, you can look around the area for a spot to settle in for the night. While here, enjoy the cottonwood trees and search for some of the grinding holes on the boulders along the west side of the water hole.

You will need to obtain a permit in advance of your overnight trip through the Cleveland National Forest. Fill out this form , fax it to the Descanso District, and wait for them to mail it back to you. Call to find out if they have managed to update their system yet to make it easier!

Kitchen Creek to Fred Canyon (A PCT Hike/Camp)

Have you ever dreamed of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)? Well here is your chance to do a portion of the hike and camp along the way too. The beauty of hiking the PCT is the ability to set up camp most places. In this area, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest land off Kitchen Creek Road and Thing Valley Road. 

This short and easy segment (about 3 miles in and 3 miles back) offers nice views of the surrounding area with little incline or elevation change (550 gain if walking uphill from Kitchen Creek and downhill if walking from Fred Canyon). This short distance makes it great for families or beginning backpackers. The best time of year to do this trail is summer, fall or spring as winter can get cold. 

Note: A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to park. The trailhead has space for 3-5 vehicles. Parking at the Fred Canyon Road end requires a high clearance vehicle to pass through the road. No facilities until Cibbets Flat at the turn-around area. A visitor’s permit can be obtained locally from the Descanso Ranger District in the Cleveland National Forest. 

Buckeye Trail in the Los Padres Forest near Big Sur

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in California for camping – whether it is car camping or backpack camping. One of the best trails to try out in the area is the Buckeye Trail. This moderately difficult, albeit beautiful trail has ocean views and travels through oak groves, redwood groves, chaparral.

The Buckeye Trail is 8.6 miles long in total, with several campgrounds dotted along the way. Beginning at the abandoned Salmon Creek Guard Station the trail winds its way north-northwest along the coastal slope, offering sweeping views of the coastline.  After passing above and within view of the Southern Redwood Botanical Area, the trail arrives at Buckeye Flat. From Buckeye Flat, the trail continues north through Cruikshank Camp before descending to Villa Creek Camp.

If you can make it all the way to Villa Creek, you will be rewarded with redwood trees and tranquil sounds of flowing water.  To start your hike, park at the now closed Salmon Creek Ranger station off Hwy 1. 

Recent visitors report an overgrown trail with quite a bit of poison oak at the first .5 mile. Also let it be known it’s a somewhat strenuous hike with somewhat steep drop offs. 

Big Pine Lakes

This is a true backcountry camping experience with no established grounds. However, the great news is that there is plenty of fresh cold water (always filter!) so you do not need to bring a ton with you. That said, you are required to bring a bear container as there are bears in this neck of the woods. See below for more on recommended gear for any backpack camping trip. This trip also requires a permit for camping that you can get on Recreation.gov .

Chickenfoot Lake in Little Lakes Valley

Another fantastic spot for backpacking in California, also located in the eastern Sierra Nevadas, is at Chickenfoot Lake on the Little Lakes Valley trail .  This is a popular spot for fishing and backpacking in California. Beginning your journey from the Mosquito Flat Trailhead, you will hike around 3.5 miles to the lake before setting up camp. Even though you might think 3.5 miles isn’t very far, this is at 10,000+ foot elevation and is considered a moderate hike, especially with a 30 pound pack on! That said, it is only 1000 feet in elevation, making this one of the easiest backpacking trips we have found in the Eastern Sierras.

You will need a wilderness permit which can be found on recretion.gov 6 months in advance or as a walk up option 2 weeks before  your hike date. This is a very popular hike, so permits are often difficult to come by. 

Obviously there is water available at the lake, but make sure to bring adequate filtration (we love this water filter !). And don’t forget the camera/phone chargers. This is one of the most beautiful sites (other than Big Pine Lakes) on this list and you will want a ton of photos!

An extension on this hike is Rock Creek to Mammoth Lakes clocking in at around 38 miles. You will need transport at the other end, but a cool trail exiting Duck Lake. 

Duck Lake & Pika Lake

Another great Eastern Sierra backpacking trip that is worth exploring is to Duck and Pika Lakes outside of Mammoth. We first looked at this hike as part of a 5 day thru hike, but realized it can also easily be done as a simple backpacking trip. Many people do this as a day hike, but it is about 10.5 miles round trip, so why not spend the night up by the lake and explore more from there? Going all the way to Pika Lake, you will see Arrowhead Lake, Skelton Lake, Barney Lake, Duck Lake and Pika. Stunning views make this a favorite so you won’t be alone up there!

The whole hike to Pika Lake and back is about 10.5 miles round trip and roughly 2,000 ft of gain. Again permits are required and can be found at recreation.gov.

John Muir Trail Section Hiking: Tuolumne Meadows to Devils Postpile

This trip can be done in 2-5 nights depending on your fitness and level of comfort. It is about 38 miles one way. In order to do this trail, there are a bit of logistics to sort out, but during the summer months the YARTS and the Reds Meadow Shuttle make this very doable. 

Yosemite Thru Hike – Happy Isles to Tuolumne

Another fantastic backpacking in California bucket list trip that everyone hopes to do someday is the first segment of the JMT from Happy Isles to Tuolumne. Again, during summer this trip is made easier with shuttles so that you can go one way without worry. We recommend taking a couple of days to do this trip to really enjoy it. Serious thru-hikers often do it in just 1 night, but we like to take our time! Park your car at Tuolumne where you will finish, take the YARTS shuttle to Yosemite Valley and off you go. This can also be done in reverse which makes it mostly downhill and it is easier to get permits as well. 

Backpacking to Minaret Lakes

Although this can be done as a long day hike, why not backpack and spend a little more time here really soaking up the sights? This can easily be a 1-2 night trip. I would recommend hiking to Minaret Lake or as close to it as you can make so that you can see the alpenglow over the minarets in the morning. The round trip for this trail is 16 miles. 

Getting here during summer requires a little bit more of effort and planning. If you drive down before 7 a.m. you can drive and park in the overnight hikers parking lot. If not, you will need to take the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttle to get to the trailhead. Once on the shuttle, you will get off at stop #6. There is water and bathrooms here to use before you set off. 

Permits are also required for this hike. You need a permit for Minaret Lake, not the northern section of the JMT.

Backpacking Green Lake Near Bridgeport

Green Lake is a hidden gem tucked away near Bridgeport, California that is a perfect backpacking route for beginners. Getting into the trail requires a long drive down a 9 mile dirt road, but it can be passed with most vehicles easily. This is an out and back trail covering around 6 miles total. An overnight permit is required for any backpacking trip in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, which can be found on recreation.gov . A beautiful blue-green (actually) lake awaits you. this is perfect for a 1 or 2 night backpacking adventure with plenty of area to explore around the lake.

Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon National Park

Things to consider for backpacking in california.

As you prepare for your first or 10th backpacking trip, you will need to consider a few things. 

• Destination: How far can you go? Do you need a permit? Is there water available? What is the best season?
• Gear: What type of gear will you need? Will you pitch a tent or try hammock sleeping? What about filtration for water? Do you have all the lightweight gear necessary?
• Food: What will you eat and drink? Will you be able to pack light enough to carry it all, but have enough food for your trip? How will you cook it? Clean it?
• Leave No Trace: Are you prepared to pack in/out all of your belongings, including your poop?

Essential Packing List for Backpacking in California

Check out our backpacking pack list (with free printable).

A backpack of some sort is a necessity. Most people recommend getting anything from a 45 liter to 60 liter pack. For two adults who can split things up between you, you could probably get away with a bit smaller pack, but bigger will always allow more versatility. Try not to pack your bag to more than 20% of your body weight for maximum comfort. 

Backpacking Tent

A lightweight backpacking tent will probably be the most expensive item you will purchase, but in the end it will be worth it to have a light durable tent. We like the Nemo Dagger lightweight tents . They are light, easy to put up and just fits two people with sleeping mats, but there are various options. Remember every little ounce adds up on each item.

Sleeping Pad

We use the Sea to Summit sleeping pad and the Therma-rest Ultralite Pad. 

Sleeping Bag

There are a variety of great lightweight sleeping bags. The most important thing to keep in mind is the weather that you plan to camp in and the weight. One great bag is the REI Joule 21, which is a great 3 season pack that is light but also very warm. Other options are Feathered Friends for lightweight down sleeping bags or Enlightened Equipment Ultralight quilts. We love our Zenbivy quilts with sheets that attach to our mats. 

Trekking Poles

We love our Black Diamond poles we have had since our trip hiking the narrows in Zion many years ago!

If you plan to be off the radar quite a bit, getting a reliable GPS device is essential. We recommend the Garmin Inreach Mini . You never know when an emergency will strike or you need to contact someone. 

Get the smallest lightest one you can. We like the Biolite headlamp, but there are a ton of options. If you do have space, consider also bringing a small solar light and/or power bank as well in case you have battery problems.

First Aid Kit

REI has a ton of great backpacking first aid kits that are also waterproof which can be essential for longer backpacking trips. 

Camp stoves will be one of your most important items for cooking. The top brand used by most backpackers is Jetboil . They have so many different options, which are small, light and boil water quickly. Another option people have recommended is the MCR Pocket Rocket stove and/or the full mess kit with stove . Test out a few, feel how heavy they are, see how they work for you before you set out in the wilderness. 

Water Purification

Water purification is an important thing to consider when backpacking in California. Not all sites will have access to water, but if they do, you will always need to filter the water. Many people use the SteriPen , water bottles (we have this one ) that filter or even gravity bags that filter between the two bags. Our preferred is the Platypus Quickdraw. 

Cups/B owls

The idea thing here is to bring thats that are super light and can be used for multiple purposes. Check out various options, but this on e is useful and light for us. 

Leave No Trace Poop Kit

Have your baggie ready for tissues and a trowel handy to dig your holes. 

Figuring out what to eat is some of the most difficult decisions for backpacking. Here are a few favorites we have on our list: Instant coffee sticks, apple & cinnamon instant oatmeal, nuts and seeds, coffee glazed almonds, Inner bean black bean snack, banana chips, just mangos, oven baked cheese bites, peanut butter pretzels, mini peanut butter crackers, garlic basil linguine pasta (from Trader Joes: cooks in 2-4 min), chicken broth packets with couscous. Other options are freeze dried foods from REI. We have heard the Pad See You by Backpackers Country is delicious, but haven’t tried it yet! 

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Have you been to any of these spots for backpacking in California? We have so many on our bucket list including the “Lost Coast” in northern California, adventuring on the John Muir trail and maybe even someday we might find ourselves backpacking near Mount Whitney!

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10 Overnight Backpack Trips in Southern California

• April 13, 2016
• Jeff Hester

The word is out. Southern California has a veritable plethora of hiking trails . And a plethora and a half of hikers exploring them. 99.9% of hikers are firmly in the day-hike only camp, and usually it’s just a matter of not knowing how to start and where to go to gain some backpacking experience.

With this in mind, I’ve come up with a list of ten great overnight backpacking trips . Most of these trips can be modified to make them easier or more challenging, depending on what you’re after. But they all provide a taste of outdoor adventure that can be enjoyed by anyone with a free night.

1. Crystal Cove State Park

Most people don’t realize this, but Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County has several backcountry camps that you can use — and they have sweeping ocean views! The trails are busy during the day, but you can hike up and setup your camp after work and still have time to cook dinner and watch the sunset. And as the sun goes down, the day-hiker (and mountain biker) crowds go with it, leaving you with a pretty sweet view.

Why this trip rocks?  My friend Tracy uses this park for what she calls a “gear shakedown” before any bigger trips, testing new gear in a relatively low-risk situation. It’s a great way to dip your toes into backpacking without traveling far.

2. Santa Cruz Trail

This is a longer, more strenuous out-and-back trip in the Santa Barbara backcountry that’s best done in the spring (it gets a bit too hot in the summer). Hike 10 miles in with 2,500′ vertical gain, setup camp by a stream under the shade of 100-year old oaks, and hike back the next day.

Why backpack this?  The distance and elevation gain are an almost perfect match for a typical day on the John Muir Trail (although at a much lower altitude). It’s a good way to see how your body responds to the climb and the distance. Time it right, and you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular wildflower show.

3. Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains

Fellow hiking blogger Scott Turner has a super  guide to this great little overnight trip to Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains in northeast San Diego County. It’s what I call an “upside-down” hike, meaning you go down 1000′ feet to the river, camp overnight, then hike up  1000′ to get back to the trailhead. But at 6.5 miles round trip, it makes a gentler introduction to backpacking.

Backpack this for… meadows, a river and a waterfall. And it’s dog-friendly. Woof!

4. Santa Anita Canyon

You can stay at Hogee’s on Winter Creek, or Spruce Grove on the Gabrieleño Trail. And if you’re feeling ambition in the morning, you can bag Mt Wilson — one of the Six-Pack of Peaks. Here’s a guide to a grand loop up Gabrieleño to the summit and down via Winter Creek . You can hike it either direction, or modify it to suit you time and energy.

I love this overnighter for… a healthy dose of LA’s hiking history. Hoagie’s and Spruce Grove campgrounds date back a hundred years. And these lush canyons feel like a world away from the freeways and traffic jams.

5. Cucamonga Peak

Joan and I backpacked to Cucamonga Peak and spent the night for our Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge (that’s her silhouetted in the setting sun en route to the summit. Pack in all your water (I took six liters).

Hike this for… the sunset. And the sunrise. And the stars and city lights in-between. We even saw the Disneyland fireworks from the summit! Did I mention this hike is also dog friendly? Woof!

6. Mt Baldy

Camping on the top of Mt Baldy is an experience. You have to pack in all your water. It’s cold, windy and exposed. But oh those sunrise and sunsets! And it’s dog friendly.

7. San Bernardino Peak

The San Bernardino Trail goes all the way up to San Bernardino Peak (and beyond). But you can stop at Limber Pine Flat and camp overnight.

Why on earth? For views like the one shown above. Says it all.

8. Catalina Island

You don’t have to hike the entire Trans-Catalina Trail to enjoy overnight backpacking on Catalina. Take the ferry from San Pedro into Two Harbors, and you can day hike to either Little Harbor or Two Harbors to Parsons Landing. Each is on a different side of the island, and each has it’s own distinct vibe.

Why backpack here? Are you serious? If you live in SoCal, you  must  do this at least once!

9. San Gorgonio

Most people hike up San Gorgonio — the highest peak in Southern California — in a single day hike. But they would be missing out on views like this one, from my High Creek campsite in 2013. Another great option is Halfway Camp (supposedly halfway to the summit from the trailhead). And once you’ve spent the night, you don’t have  to continue to San Gorgonio. But you probably will.

Why backpack San Gorgonio? Because it’s the tallest damn mountain in SoCal, and you should make the journey last as long as you can.

10. San Jacinto

San Jacinto is my personal favorite!  I’ve been backpacking on this mountain since I was a teenager, and I’ll never tire of it. You can hike in from Idyllwild or take the tram up. I took my daughter up there on an overnight backpack trip before she even was walking!

Why is San Jacinto my favorite? Options to bag San Jacinto, or just go check out Wellman’s Divide. Beautiful alpine meadows, and peaks that remind me of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Here’s a peek at our overnight trip from the Tram to the summit of San Jacinto .

Wrapping Up

All of these overnight these overnight trips include some bureaucracy, usually in the form of a wilderness permit obtainable from the local ranger station.

Those are some of my top picks for short overnight backpack trips all over Southern California. Leave a comment to share your favorites. 

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Best Northern California Backpacking Trips

Explore the breathtaking beautiful of northern california’s backcountry, 1. fern canyon , trail: begin at the prairie creek redwoods state park visitor center and hike to gold bluffs campground, then day hike to the nearby fern canyon, length: 2o miles out & back, elevation gain: 1,500 ft, overnight permit required, highlights: waking up early from the campground and being the first ones in the morning to walk through the canyon before it gets busy was magic.

2. Lost Coast 

Trail: begins at nadelos campground in the mendocino national forest, then winds up chemise mountain, across whale gulch by wading barefoot, then up the coastline to jones campground, length: 13 miles out & back, elevation gain: 3,400 ft, highlights: hiking past a peaceful herd of elk down on the hillside below.

Newts crossing – Careful where you step!

3. Snow Mountain

Trail: begin at the deafy glade th in the mendocino national forest, length: 15 miles out & back, elevation gain: 4,400 ft, highlights: exploring the unique serpentinite soil-adapted plants.

Although stunning in the snow, perhaps go when the snow has melted to see more of the landscape safely

4. Coast Camp

Trail: begin at the bear valley visitor center in point reyes national seashore and hike to coast camp, length: 14 miles out & back, elevation gain: 2,000 ft, highlights: hearing the crashing of the waves at night while your cozy in your tent at night.

5. Palomarin to Wildcat Camp 

Trailhead: begin at palomarin th on the point reyes peninsula, length: 12 miles out & back, elevation gain: 1,700 ft, highlights: lots of elk at camp, osprey by the ocean, swallows building nests in the cliffs, secret waterfall.

While you are there, pay homage to this tree by not carving on its face

erigeron glaucus – seaside daisy

Don’t forget to  Leave No Trace , read all regulations for the park you will be in, and check the weather forecast before setting off on your journey. Happy Trails! – Dendrophile Danielle

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!

To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

Hello, my name's Danielle and I am a biologist backpacker from Santa Cruz, California. As an avid birder and botanist, I love to share my love for naturalizing with others. My pack is usually heavy since I lug around my binoculars and digital camera. Happy trails !

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Beginner Backpacking Trips in California High Sierra

Alex Silgalis

Looking for beginner backpacking trips in California? Here's 9 of our favorites in the High Sierra to get you hooked on the sport for life!

Featured • Hiking & Backpacking

Eastern Sierra • Lake Tahoe • Southern Sierra • Western Sierra

If there’s a place on Earth that’s perfectly suited for your first backing trip, it’s the California High Sierra. The Sierra Nevada receives nearly 300 days of sunshine. Wonderfully pleasant temps in the summer as well as into fall. And on top of it all, compared to other mountain ranges you need to worry less about the wildlife.

What Is Backpacking?

The main difference between backpacking and camping is in how you get to the spot where you’re spending the night(s). To camp, you can drive right up to your location (more on that later). But when you backpack, you carry all the gear you need to set up your campsite on your back.

What To Look For In A Beginner Backpacking Trip

We all want to summit the highest peaks and reach for the biggest goals when we start a sport. Even if you are the fittest individual and/or know the great outdoors, the skill set required for backpacking is a combination of both. Start small. Look for low-mileage, moderate elevation gain, and avoid tricky trails filled with things like boulder fields. It isn’t easy, but the rewards are priceless.

Use Permits

Just a heads up that many of these trails called out have restrictions on where you can camp, require a permit for camping, and even the use of camping stoves. Please respect the system so we can protect the wilderness beauty and mitigate wildfire risk.

Yosemite Permit Rules

Speaking of permits, to do any backpacking hike in Yosemite you’ll need a permit and the amount issued is based on trailhead quotas. Sixty percent of permit reservations are available by lottery at recreation.gov beginning on the Sunday up to 24 weeks (168 days) in advance of the date you want to start hiking. The rest are available at wilderness centers on a walk-up/first-come basis one day before the trip start date.

One of the best parts about backpacking is that you’re bringing all the gear you’ll need to camp in the wilderness. With that being said, be aware of the rules of WHERE you can camp. Many of the crystal clear lakes don’t allow you to pitch a tent within 600 feet of the waters to ensure they stay clean. In addition, most national forest lands are under year-round fire restrictions. This means wood and charcoal fires are only permitted within metal fire rings in open, developed campgrounds.

Winnemucca Lake

Distance: 5 Miles Elevation Gain: 600 Feet

When deciding to pick a beginner backpacking trip in California, you should keep in mind the primary goal which is to have fun. Near the top of the list for the most scenic AND accessible would be Lake Winnemucca. Located on a small section of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, this relatively flat trail is a great way to introduce everyone including kids to the experience of backpacking. You’ll find groves of Hemlock, tall granite peaks, and even wildflower blooms in the summer. There’s even an opportunity to go peak bagging and climb to the summit of Round Top which is within eyesight of the campground. The most challenging part to this hike might be obtaining a camping permit.

Distance: 12 Miles

Elevation Gain: 1,200 Feet

As the deep snowpack melts away in the High Sierra, Tuolumne Meadows is home to some of the best beginner backpacking trips in California. One of our personal favorites is to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. Although you could do this as a day hike , it’s better as a backpacking adventure. Starting at Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center, you’ll follow the Tuolumne River which features a host of waterfalls such as Tuolumne Falls and the White Cascade Falls which are located AT the camp. To learn more about what you need to do ahead of time, go to wilderness camping in Yosemite.

The iconic hike up to Half Dome is a monster climb. Nearly 5,000 vertical feet of elevation gain, depending on which trail you take, it can be anywhere from 14.5 miles to 16.5 miles round-trip. We wouldn’t recommend this one being your first beginner backpacking trips in California but one to aspire towards.

Distance: 5 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,200 Feet

Although Desolation Wilderness gets all the fame nationally and rightly so, to the north you’ll find the Granite Chief Wilderness, one of the many oases for mountain adventures in the area . Established in 1984, within its boundaries you’ll find glaciated valleys, granite formations, and even tall skyscraper peaks. A good way to take this all in is via the Five Lakes trail . As the name suggests, you’ll stroll past five alpine lakes and the route will provide a tranquil yet dramatic view of the High Sierra.

Barney and Duck Lakes

Distance: 10-12 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,170 Feet Up To 3,300 Feet (Depending on if you go to Duck Lake)

Another great summer destination to consider for one of your beginner backpacking trips in California is Mammoth Lakes . From here, you have a host of options to choose from like Barney & Duck Lakes via Duck Pass Trail. The route plays peek-a-boo with Mammoth Mountain in between the tall lodge pines as well as a chain of lakes. As you ascend, the forest will give way to the towering Mammoth Crest with Barney Lake sitting at the base.

Bull Run And Heiser Lakes

Distance: 8-9 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,479 Feet

If you’re looking for a more secluded adventure, this might be one of the best beginner backpacking trips in California. Located on Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway , one of our favorite scenic drives in the High Sierra , it’s not too far from the town of Markleeville . Start off at the Stanislaus Meadow trailhead and follow the Bull Run trail. Its route winds itself through a thick stand of old-growth conifers giving way to alpine country granite and finishing at Bull Run Lake. Both this lake and Heiser offer anglers the opportunity to catch trout during the summer months.

Loch Leven Lakes

Distance: 8 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,600 Feet

Tip: Be sure to wear proper hiking boots and bring poles since there are long sections of uneven granite boulders to navigate. If you don’t own either of these stop by one of the many outdoor sports shops in Truckee for the best selection of backcountry gear and supplies.

Relief Reservoir

Distance: 7.2 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,660 Feet

To the south, you’ll find Sonora Pass and a classic overnight backpacking destination – Relief Reservoir. Starting under the tall pine canopy of the Kennedy Meadows trailhead , it quickly opens up to a lush green meadow. The Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River winds its way lazily through it. In the distance, tall peaks can be seen. As you continue upward, you’re greeted to a massive display of falls and a steep granite valley. Near the summit, it gets steeper until it opens up to the massive Relief Reservoir . A cool breeze blows over you as you take in the jaw-dropping scenery. Even in summer, the tall peaks of the Sierra crust still have patches of white amongst the granite.

Long Lake via Bishop Pass

Distance: ~ 5 Miles Elevation Gain: 1000 Feet

If there’s a place that has backpacking in its blood, it’s Bishop and its big backyard. Most backpacking trails in Bishop start high – at 8,000 – 10,000 feet above sea level so take it slow. For those craving iconic views of the High Sierra, Long Lake should be near the top of the list. This short but challenging hike features everything from glades of aspen, tall granite peaks, and of course a shimmering lake to camp by. Once here, you can spend a few nights and pick from a multitude of trails or just soak up the atmosphere.

Distance: 12 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,879 Feet

No list of the best beginner backpacking trips in California would be complete without listing one in the Desolation Wilderness. And the hike that showcases this wilderness in all its glory is Lake Aloha via the Echo Lakes trailhead . Sweeping panoramic views of the Sierra. A multitude of alpine lakes . And plenty of glorious granite. As a day-hike, Lake Aloha is a challenge due to its length, but it’s perfect for backpacking. We recommend starting from Echo Lakes trailhead so you can avoid the summer crowds enjoying Emerald Bay .

The nice thing about backpacking is you can make it as easy or hard as you want just by picking the pace and the route. These beginner backpacking trips in California High Sierra are the perfect way to get into the activity. You’ll create lasting memories and get the opportunity to experience a night under the stars miles from civilization. You won’t regret giving backpacking a shot.

Author: Alex Silgalis

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The 15 Best Backpacking Trips in Northern California

From the allure of ancient redwoods to the drama of Big Sur’s craggy cliffs, Northern California is a surreal playground for backpackers. The region’s cooler temperatures and abundance of crystal pools make Northern California a great location for longer, committed hikes that will take you away from the world for two to three days. Opportunities to encounter deer, black bears and mountain lions as the fog parts before you on a secluded Pacific trail only add to the sense of adventure of a NorCal hike. Here’s a look at 15 overnight backpacking trips and trails Northern California trekkers will love.

Quick Navigation

• The Carson-Iceberg Wilderness
• Devil’s Punchbowl Trail
• Clear Creek Route to Mount Shasta
• The Pine Ridge Trail
• Highway 5 Section P to the Etna Summit
• The Canyon Creek Lakes Trail
• The Lost Coast Trail
• The Stuart Fork Trail
• Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop
• Redfern Pond From Hunting Hollow Trail
• Half Dome Trail
• Glacier Point Trail
• Cone Peak Loop
• The Feather Falls Loop Trail

1. The Carson-Iceberg Wilderness in Stanislaus National Forest

Comprised of more than 200 miles of Sierra trails spread across 160,000 acres, the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness is often overshadowed by nearby Yosemite trails. That can work to your advantage if you prefer the feeling that you own the trails. A Carson-Iceberg Wilderness expedition is one of the best 3-day backpacking trips California explorers can plan. Elevations within the wilderness span from 4,800 feet up to 11,462 feet. Carson-Iceberg even covers a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. Expect to see generous coverings of Sierra junipers, Jeffery pines and lodgepole pines. This pocket of Northern California is also famed for its mule-deer herds.

Here’s a list of top backpacking trails with camping within the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness network:

• Bull Run Lake Trail: 7.7 miles/1,479 feet.
• Sword Lake Trail: 6.4 miles/1,194 feet.
• Disaster Creek Loop Trail: 15.5 miles/3,736 feet.
• Mosquito Lakes to Bull Run Lakes: 7.3 miles/1,676 feet.
• Wolf Creek Lake Trail to Grays Crossing: 7.7 miles/1,479 feet.

Find more information here .

2. Devil’s Punchbowl Trail in Klamath National Forest

Picturesque and steep, Devil’s Punchbowl Trail offers spectacular views for committed backpackers. While this is a year-round trail, the gate is often closed in snow conditions. Camping is not permitted at the trail end. However, Trout Camp at the Doe Flat/Clear Creek junction is commonly used by backpackers pursuing this trail.

Trail details:

• Distance : 4.4 to 10 miles, depending on the trail end you pick.
• Elevation gain : 2191 feet.
• Camping : available at Trout Camp at the Doe Flat/Clear Creek junction.

3. Clear Creek Route to Mount Shasta in Mount Shasta Wilderness

Peppered with red rocks and canyon views, Mount Shasta’s Clear Creek Route is ideal for 3-day backpacking trips California adventurers can plan. The famed Mushroom Rock located at the 13,000-foot mark is considered an ideal resting point. It’s also the point where helmets are recommended if continuing toward the summit. Those who make the trek are treated to a landscape of ethereal red boulders and broad paint strokes of wildflowers.

• Distance : 11.4 miles.
• Elevation gain : 7,800-foot climb to a 14,179-foot summit.
• Camping : available at Clear Creek Meadow between 8,300 and 8,600 feet.

4. The Pine Ridge Trail in the Ventana Wilderness

Considered the gateway to the Big Sur corridor, the Pine Ridge Trail is a splendid route canopied by redwoods, pines and oaks. It gets a decent amount of traffic due to the fact that it’s the junction for Big Sur Station and Tassajara Road at China Camp. This is an ideal choice for overnight backpacking Northern California visitors looking for a backcountry experience that offers access to stunning riverside camps touching the Big Sur River.

• Distance : 23 miles.
• Elevation gain : 7,847 feet.
• Campsites : Divide Camp, Pine Ridge Camp, Redwood Camp, Sykes Camp, Barlow Flat Camp and Terrace Creek Camp.

5. King Peak in the King Range National Conservation Area

When seeking shorter backpacking trips Northern California visitors can enjoy, King Peak is hard to top. Located just three miles from the Pacific shore, this trail takes the cake for ocean views that pan out to include canyons and valleys. When accessing King Peak from the Lost Coast Trail, it’s important to time your visit with the tides because some areas are impassable during high tide.

• Distance : 2.5 miles when approached from the Lightning Trailhead.
• Elevation gain : 2,500 feet.
• Camping : available at Maple Camp.

6. Highway 5 Section P to the Etna Summit in Klamath National Forest

Access to Upper Ruffey Lake and views of Mount Shasta are what attract most Northern California backpacking enthusiasts to this route. Encapsulating the best that the Pacific Crest Trail represents, this route can either be used as a launching point for a longer trek or a sightseeing spot. Once at the summit, enjoy reclining on large, flat rocks while tuning into the pristine silence surrounding you.

• Distance : 95.7 miles.
• Elevation gain : 16,771 feet.
• Camping : Dispersed camping.

7. The Canyon Creek Lakes Trail in the Trinity Alps Wilderness

With its gradual inclines and wonderful opportunities for lake fishing, the Canyon Creek Lakes Trail is a favorite for both humans and wildlife. Sightings of black-tailed deer, beavers and black bears are not unusual. Home to dozens of waterfalls, this route contains five falls that are highly visible to hikers. It’s a good option when looking for backcountry camping in Northern California with little traffic.

• Distance : 17 miles.
• Elevation gain : 2,900 feet.
• Camping : dispersed campsites located along the trail’s creek.

8. Lost Coast Trail in King Range National Conservation Area

An idyllic beach-hiking route, this journey often offers hikers surprise treasures like mass whale sightings. Points like the Punta Gorda Lighthouse add magic to the journey. In addition, the route is peppered with dunes and cliffs that can be enjoyed as you patiently wait for high tide to roll away to clear the path before you.

• Distance : 25.3 miles.
• Elevation gain : 1,578 feet.
• Camping : available at Cooskie Creek, Telegraph Creek and various flats.

9. The Stuart Fork Trail to Emerald and Sapphire Lakes in the Trinity Alps Wilderness Area

One of the largest watersheds for Northern California backpacking, this multi-day trail is a hotbed for wildflowers and wildlife. Hikers will get about nine miles in before coming upon the meadow portion of this route. As you traverse the canyon, you’ll also spot abandoned mining equipment that has sat untouched for more than a century. The last mile of the route offers views of Emerald Lake.

• Distance : 30 miles.
• Elevation gain : 4,576 feet.
• Camping : available at Bridge Camp Campground and Morris Meadow.

10. Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop in Point Reyes National Seashore

This is a good option for an overnight or 2-day backpacking Northern California adventure. Hikers are treated to beautiful coastal views of Point Reyes National Seashore and wafts from patches of fresh huckleberries throughout the trail. You’ll find a nice mix of sun and shade along a trail that starts off very steep for the first few miles before gradually shifting to flat and downhill footing.

• Distance : 22 miles.
• Elevation gain : 1,259 feet.
• Camping : available at Coast Camp.

11. Redfern Pond From Hunting Hollow Trail in Henry W. Coe State Park

This is a great year-round loop located close to the Bay Area. The Hunting Hollow entrance offers the easiest accessibility point into the more than 100,000 acres that make up Henry W. Coe State Park. Sunshine and moonlight play nicely against the dry grassy hills that give this trail its definition. The trail also includes multiple creek crossings. Upon arrival at Redfern, anticipate a reed-covered oasis teeming with bullfrogs and birds.

• Distance : 7.3 miles.
• Elevation gain : 1,364 feet.
• Camping : lakeside dispersed campgrounds.

12. Half Dome Trail in Yosemite National Park

A five-star trek that requires expertise, Yosemite’s Half Dome Trail is full of steep trails and switchbacks that bring you toward breathtaking views. The steep climbs to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls prove more than satisfying for trekkers. Also notable is the break in trees that occurs about seven miles in that reveals the famed Half Dome with accompanying valley views.

• Distance : 15 miles.
• Elevation gain : 4,800 feet.
• Camping : available at Little Yosemite Campground (lottery draw due to popularity).

13. Glacier Point Trail in Yosemite National Park

Considered one of the more accessible Yosemite options, Glacier Point Trail is a loop that can be picked up near Yosemite’s gift shop. However, this trail makes up for its lack of daring with its unmatched views. Panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Upper Yosemite Falls, Lower Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls and Clouds Rest are all on display. Despite grade increases, this trail is considered friendly for kids. This is a top pick for short backpacking trips Northern California hikers can enjoy. You can turn a visit to Glacier Point trail into a bigger backpacking adventure by accessing it from the Four Mile Trailhead using a 4.7-mile trek at a 3,200-foot elevation.

• Distance : 0.6 miles from entrance.
• Elevation gain : 219 feet.
• Camping : dispersed Camping is available 100 yards away from any trail.

14. Cone Peak Loop at Big Sur

The highest coastal mountain in the contiguous United States, Cone Peak offers dramatic views that span from Pacific coastline to the Ventana Wilderness. While beautiful, the trail can become harsh at points as you pass downed trunks and overgrown bushes. The varied ecosystem here moves from rocky and dry to lush with each twist and curve of the terrain. This is a great option for 3 to 4 day overnight backpacking Northern California adventures.

• Distance : 26 miles.
• Elevation gain : 7,175 feet.
• Camping : available at Kirk Creek Campground, Limekiln Campground, Espinosa, Vicente Flat, Cone Peak Road, Trail Spring and Goat Camp.

15. The Feather Falls Loop Trail in Plumas National Forest

A beautiful, well-maintained trail located near Tahoe, Feather Falls offers a rewarding dip in the swimming hole accompanying the falls after what can be a rigorous, stony trek at times. The trail offers nice shade in most spots. However, the very leafy nature of this trail means that packing a good supply of bug spray is a must! The crowning feature of this trail is the large wooden viewing platform overlooking the falls.

• Distance : 8.1 miles.
• Elevation gain : 1,732 feet.
• Camping : available at the Feather Falls Trailhead Campground.

Find more related articles

• The Ultimate Guide to Point Reyes National Seashore
• The Ultimate Guide to Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Redwood National and State Parks: An Extensive Guide
• 10 Best Camping Destinations in Minnesota
• Camping in Glacier National Park: 15 Greatest Campgrounds

Hiking, Camping & Backpacking Enthusiast

Minds Lukas Savela , an adventure travel writer and outdoor enthusiast, has explored numerous countries, drawn by his love for nature and wildlife. His passion for hiking the world's most scenic trails is reflected in his writings. He contributed to renowned platforms like  Wandrly magazine , Go Nomad , Osprey.com , RAD Season , Wilderness Society , The Los Angeles Beat , California.com , Nature Conservancy , sharing his experiences to inspire others' adventures. Through his work, Minds aims to deepen appreciation for the natural world and encourage exploration.

Currently Minds resides in Alberta, Canada, where he's enjoying wilderness backpacking and front country camping, and made his first steps into becoming a hunter.

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Weekend getaways, week-long adventures, gritty expeditions, backpacking trails in california, home to over 14 million acres of wilderness, california is every outdoor enthusiast’s dream. visit the great state and experience well-known backpacking trails through northern california like the pacific crest trail (pct) or adventure through the best backpacking trails in southern california in san bernardino national forest. with so many landscapes and trails to choose from, hikers of every skill level can find easy backpacking trails in california to create long weekend getaways or more difficult journeys for gritty expeditions. pack your bag and start planning your trip west, *our information may not always be current and should be used for trip planning / selection purposes only. always call ahead for the most current information before setting out on your trip., weekend getaways.

Castle Crags Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 28

Group Size Limit: 10

Best For: 1-3 nights

Permit/Reservation: Not required 

Crystal Cove State Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 17

Group Size Limit: 4 per campsite

Best For: 1 night

Permit/Reservation: Required 

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 31

Group Size Limit: 15

Point Reyes National Seashore 

Number of Miles of Trail: 150

Group Size Limit: 14 

Best For: 1-6 nights (hard limit)

Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail

Number of Miles of Trail: 33

Group Size Limit: 6

Best For: 1-4 nights  

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Number of Miles of Trail: 63

Group Size Limit: N/A

Best For: 1-6 nights 

Gritty Expeditions 

Angeles National Forest - San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

Number of Miles of Trail: 550+

Group Size Limit: Keep groups small

Best For: 1-∞ nights

Ansel Adams Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 350

Carson-Iceberg Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 200 

Group Size Limit: 15 

Best For: 1-13 nights (hard limit)

Channel Islands National Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 100+ 

Group Size Limit: 16

Best For: 1-14 nights 

Cleveland National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 350+ 

Group Size Limit: 25

Death Valley National Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 184* 

Group Size Limit: 12

Best For: 1-∞ nights 

Desolation Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 71*

Best For: 1-10 nights (hard limit)

Permit/Reservation: Required

*Estimate 

Eldorado National Forest

Group Size Limit: 8

Emigrant Wilderness

Henry W. Coe State Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 250

Group Size Limit: 8 per campsite 

Best For: 1-35 nights

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 100+

Best For: 1-13 nights

Inyo Mountains Wilderness

Best For: 1-13 nights 

Inyo National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 1,200+

Best For: 1-∞ nights ; varies by wilderness area

John Muir Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 590+

Joshua Tree National Park

Best For: 1-14 nights

Klamath National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 1,000+

Lassen National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 92*

Best For: 1-13 nights (hard limit) 

Permit/Reservation: Not required

*Estimate  

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Best For: 1-21 nights 

Los Padres National Forest Main

Number of Miles of Trail: 900+

Los Padres National Forest North

Number of Miles of Trail: 300+

Marble Mountain Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 600+

Best for: 1-13 nights (hard limit)

Mendocino National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 98*

Modoc National Forest

Mokelumne Wilderness 

Plumas National Forest ​

Number of Miles of Trail: 300

Redwood National & State Parks

Number of Miles of Trail: 200+

Best For: 1-28 nights 

Rogue River – Siskiyou National Forest

Russian Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 100

San Bernardino National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 400+

Group Size Limit: 25 

Permit/Reservation: Optional

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Number of Miles of Trail: 800+

Group Size Limit: 15 (less in some areas)

Sequoia National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 850

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 1,500+

Sierra National Forest

Best For: 1-20 nights (hard limit)

Siskiyou Wilderness

Six Rivers National Forest

South Warner Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 80

Best For: 1-11 nights 

Stanislaus National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 1,100

Group Size Limit: Variable

Tahoe National Forest

Trinity Alps Wilderness

Yosemite National Park

Group Size Limit: 15 (8 off-trail)

Best For: 1-14 nights (hard limit)

Looking for more, short trips near California? Explore  Oregon , Nevada , and Arizona state pages for more close trips!

Don't see your favorite place found an error on the site let us know and help backpackers everywhere.

5 Weekend Backpacking Trips in California to Do This Summer

Use these helpful guides to plan your next trip now, and find yourself among nature once the stay-at-home order lifts

When it comes to outdoor recreation, few states boast the biodiversity and sheer size of accessible terrain that California can. With 840 miles of coastline and over 14,000 designated areas protected by public agencies and non-profits—including nine national parks spanning over 6.2 million acres, 17 national forests covering over 20 million acres, and 300 state parks totaling 1.3 million aces—finding public land to explore is easy. It’s doing so while avoiding crowds that’s the real trick.

With this in mind—not to mention a nationwide urge to get out and explore more after being cooped up for two plus years now—it’s best to plan a ways ahead. The following five zones each offers a unique backpacking experience , whether going out for a weekend for an extended trek. Click through to access insider tips, 35mm film photography, and dos & font’s for visiting.

[Editor's Note: For adventures closer to home, check out our new guide to the best day hikes in Los Angeles and our favorite local's guide to camping in the Eastern Sieera .]

5. Taft Point, Yosemite National Park

Now, let's be real, it's not going to be easy to hike this trail alone. But as you'll see in this story, it's all about timing and getting proper permits—knowing a local wouldn't hurt either. If you make it out, hit up FM Contributor Andrew M. Upchurch , a talented film photographer and hiking guide for the Yosemite Mountaineering School. Play your cards right and you might see the valley like few do. SEE GUIDE

4. Little Five & Big Five Lakes Loop, Sequoia National Park

This loop is everything one could ask for. It’s roughly 30 miles and has just under 10,000 feet of elevation gain. You find yourself winding through lush pine forests, up incredible switchbacks, dipping your toes into lakes and summiting two peaks right around 11,600 feet.

Once, on top of Blackrock Pass you get your first glimpse at Mount Whitney and a beautiful view of the Sierra Range . Trails like this are good at reminding you that the simple things in life are the best—each step on the long ascents are like a form of meditation. SEE GUIDE

3. John Muir Wilderness, Sierra Nevada

Nestled between Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes, this wilderness area is one of California's most special landscapes. As a one-time favorite of renowned naturalist John Muir and oft-cited inspiration for photographer and conservationist Ansel Adams, the aptly named Ansel Adams Wilderness is worth doing your homework on. SEE GUIDE

2. Ansel Adams Wilderness, Inyo National Forest

A solid alternative to Yosemite National Park , this lesser trafficked area is full of deep lakes and towering craggy peaks, and offers some of the best star gazing just about anywhere. This one sits high on this writer's must-visit list, that's for sure. SEE GUIDE

1. Lost Coast Trail, King Range National Conservation Area

As any experienced outdoorist knows, often the campsites that take the most effort to reach turn out to be the best . And well, you're going to have to work for every single site on this trail—that includes walking on wet sandy, through rock fields, against battering wind, and maybe even through a bit of rain. But as you can see, the juice is worth the squeeze on Northern California's legendary Lost Coast. SEE GUIDE

Looking for more backpacking ideas elsewhere? Check out the Elkhorn Crest Trail in Eastern Oregon and Colorado's famed Four Pass Loo p.

Published 04-09-2020

Updated 05-02-2022

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Stunning film photography documents an impromptu trip to the Wind River Range, where emotions run high as the hard-fought miles tick by

Taking several thousand steps outside of one’s comfort zone with fly rod in hand and sights set on fish filled high elevation lakes

A deep dive into the vast landscape of camp lanterns for backpacking, camping, van living, and beyond

A complete guide to packing for a multi-day wilderness adventure, product recs included

Lightweight, comfy, and highly-packable, these cots make getting a good night's rest under the stars easy, without the noise and feel of an air pad

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Home » North America » USA » California

California Travel Guide (2024)

California is synonymous with several stereotypes: dramatic coastline and palm tree-lined roadways, movie stars, models, and Silicon Valley billionaires, sunshine, surf towns, and wine country.

Yes, you can find all of that in California, but this state offers so much more than the clichés. In this California travel guide, I’ll do my best to convince you why California is one of the most diverse places on earth, whether you need convincing or not.

Aside from the mentioned things above, California is also known for some of the world’s most stunning national parks and breathtaking wilderness, historic mining towns, thriving micro-brew scene, world-class skiing and majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, agriculture and farms, deserts, and so much more.

I have traveled to a lot of places in my life, but nowhere is as diverse as California.

In one trip you can surf and ski, hike in pristine backcountry, visit the famous Yosemite Valley, walk amongst the tallest organisms in the world (redwoods  and  sequoias), indulge in fresh produce and multi-ethnic cuisine, drink world-class wine (and beer), party in LA, marvel at San Francisco’s iconic architecture, explore the hottest desert in the US, and then, road trip along the coast.

Hope you didn’t hold your breath for that sentence. Now, I’m not suggesting you attempt to backpack  all  of California in one trip. What I am suggesting, however, is that you take a good look at this California travel guide as you plan your future trip.

You don’t have to be rich to visit California either. Yes, California is expensive, but I’m going to show you how to go backpacking California on a budget too.

From the year-long summer beaches of southern California to the foggy, unpopulated forests of the north, this travel guide will cover everything you need to know about backpacking California.

Not only will I discuss the best places to visit in California, but also advise you on how to escape the crowds (trust me, it can be tough in the most populated state), and discover some of the state’s most treasured hidden gems.

I’ll also cover costs and budget hacks, several California itineraries, information on food and drinks, when to visit California, camping, California’s national parks, and so much more.

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Where to Travel in California

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As I mentioned above, this is one of the most diverse places on earth. Want to lounge on glamorous beaches in California , surf in winter, and eat fish tacos to your heart’s content? Head down to San Diego  near the border of Mexico. Want to get down and dirty in Los Angeles ‘ music scene, catch a live show and then nurse your hangover at one of the many, many organic brunch spots?

How about a laidback surf trip? Wild coasts? Foggy forests? Head to the northern coast .

Are you an adventurous traveler looking to hike in John Muir country, climb granite among world-class rock climbers, or go skiing in the Sierras? Head east to Lake Tahoe , Mammoth Lake , Yosemite, and beyond.

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Desert dweller? You can star gaze among Joshua Trees and sleep amongst Death Valley’s dunes . Road trip through the Eastern Sierras and take a dip in one of the natural hot springs.

Are you planning to wine and dine at a vineyard in Napa Valley ? It’s pretty epic, but if staying in Napa is too expensive, I’ll show you something better on the Central Coast .

Then, of course, there’s San Francisco and the Bay Area, which I’ll cover in detail later.

Basically, in California, the world is your oyster. I’ll cover the best places to visit in California below, but first, let’s cover some awesome travel itineraries for backpacking California.

Remember, when planning a trip with this California travel guide that the state is absolutely massive, like bigger than Germany. It takes at least 12 hours to drive from the northern border to Mexico.

Do yourself a favor and plan a realistic California travel itinerary, one that focuses on your travel interests. Are you an outdoorsman and hiker? The Sierras will be your playground. Need some beach time? I’ll cover the coast below.

Are you on a California road trip? I’ll include the best road trip itineraries below too. More of a city dweller, don’t worry there’s a California itinerary for you.

Keep in mind that you will want a car for all of them except itinerary #2, which I wrote specifically for car-less travelers. Keep on reading to see my 5 California backpacking routes.

5-Day California Itinerary #1: Southern California

5 days in Southern California: LA to San Diego

If you are backpacking California in the winter, this is the itinerary I would recommend most.

In the interest of time, try to book an open jaw flight into LAX and out of San Diego. Starting in Los Angeles, spend a couple days exploring the areas that interest you most. Don’t forget about Orange County either, which is  not LA as locals will have you know.

We have a travel guide on Los Angeles that will help you plan this part of the trip! When it comes to beaches and surfing, I recommend checking out Malibu , Venice Beach, and Newport Beach,  then making your way south to San Diego, stopping in Oceanside and Encinitas . These beach suburbs are perfect for beach breaks. Also, stop in Torrey Pines State Park for a day hike.

If you want to save some money before starting your road trip, then consider staying at one of the motels in LA which is conveniently located just off the main highways.

End your 5 day trip to California in San Diego , eating tacos and sipping on margaritas in the sunshine. This is a fun, laidback city that I personally enjoy more than LA… so consider spending more time here if you’re after surf and sun.

If you have more than 5 days in California, consider spending more time exploring the cities, or adding road trip stops in Riverside , Palm Springs and Joshua Tree ! Palm Springs is a popular place for weekenders, bachelorette parties, and groups who want to chill out by a pool. Also popular for golfers. There are also a bunch of state parks in the area, such as the San Jacinto mountain range – I would suggest staying in the quaint town of Idyllwild if you want to explore this area.

Another classic Wine spot is Temecula- not as famous as its Northern neighbours but the plonk they produce is top notch and there are some other things to do in the area.

Joshua Tree National Park is absolutely gorgeous. Plus, it’s a haven for hikers ! Do not miss it if you love nature, camping, star gazing, strange rock formations, and climbing. This is one of the best national parks in California to visit in winter too.

7 Day California Itinerary #2: Car-less Itinerary

7 Days in California: Cities

California might be one of the best places to go on a road trip, but it can be expensive and time-consuming. If you are a solo traveler, or you are simply more interested in exploring California’s awesome cities, this itinerary is for you.

I specifically put this together for people who cannot travel in California with a car.

Starting in San Francisco -you can fly into SFO, Oakland, or even SJC in San Jose- spend 3 days exploring the city. There is plenty to do among all of the neighborhoods; refer to the “places to visit in California” section below.

Essentially, SF is the best city to walk around and explore its distinct neighborhoods, indulge in the multi-ethnic food scene, and have a picnic at one of the many green spaces.

Need help deciding between San Francisco or San Diego ? Check out our helpful guide.

I suggest allotting half a day to exploring Oakland and Berkeley in East Bay  if you are into food and art.

If you do not have a car, consider biking out to the Marin Headlands , though I do not suggest riding past the viewpoint on Highway 1 without experience. It is steep and traffic piles up on weekends. Bike across the bridge and then up to the Marin Headlands bunkers for the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge .

You can then bike to the bayside, charming town of Sausalito for a bite to eat and then ferry back to the SF piers. This is another great way to spend a day around San Francisco without a car.

Next, take a train or bus to Southern California. Amtrak can be scenic, but quite expensive and the train system in the US is nothing like Europe’s. I would actually suggest using Megabus to get from the CalTrain station in SF to LA. It will be much cheaper and faster.

Whilst in Southern California, plan your itinerary similar to the one above. Without a car it will be hard to get around the OC and beaches, so you are best off picking one or two areas to explore around with limited time.

You can get around LA with public transportation, but I have little experience doing so. Again, refer to the LA city guide for more information. After exploring LA, catch a bus or train to San Diego , home to one of the best city beaches. SD will be the perfect way to end your vacation.

Visit Balboa Park and La Jolla to check out the sea caves, eat fresh fish tacos on Pacific Beach , and check out the Gaslamp or Mission district’s bar scene.

This itinerary can easily be reversed, but I like the idea of starting with San Francisco’s city and food scene, a full day of biking, and then winding down with the warmer San Diego beaches.

10 Day California Itinerary #3: Northern California’s Cities and Mountains

10 Days in California: San Francisco and the Sierra Nevada Mountains

For this California Itinerary, you will definitely want to rent a car. It is possible to bus to places like Yosemite Valley and Lake Tahoe, but frankly, it will be expensive and require multiple forms of transportation. You are better off renting a car.

Again, start your trip in San Francisco exploring neighborhoods like Haight , the Castro , and Mission . At night, the Marina, Polk Street, North Beach, the Mission, and Castro have the best nightlife. The dodgy Tenderloin hosts some of the best clubs.

With a car, you now have options. If you want to spend at least half a day on a beach, I would consider the beaches around Half Moon Bay  about 45 minutes south. These beaches can be absolutely gorgeous, though often foggy. Pacifica tends to be foggier… You can also head up to North Bay and visit Bodega Bay and Stinson Beach .

For the best coastal hiking near San Francisco, head up to Point Reyes National Seashore . Again, the beaches weather is unpredictable, but the rugged and dramatic coastlines are beautiful in all weather.

After a few days in the Bay Area, head inland towards Lake Tahoe . Stop for a wine tasting or two (responsibly) in the Napa and Sonoma region.

Note: I definitely recommend visiting this famous region if you never have before, but I also feel like it can be overpriced. There are some pretty fun and high-quality wineries in the foothills too for a 1/20th of the cost. Check out the Placer County Wine Trail.

A good place to stop for lunch is  Midtown Sacramento or in the foothills. This is one of California’s best farm-to-table regions.

After a very long drive, you’ll end in Lake Tahoe . With only 2-3 days, I suggest basing yourself on the west shores. Emerald Bay, Bliss Beach, and Desolation Wilderness will leave you spoilt for views, hiking, and beaches.

If you are visiting California in the winter, you’ll have plenty of options for skiing and snowshoeing too. For a low-key, romantic vacation, consider staying on the North Shore. If you want something a bit more “happening,” South Shore is best. There are many cool places to stay in Lake Tahoe , so you’ll easily find somewhere suitable for you in these areas.

Speaking of romantic vacations, I also highly consider stopping in Nevada City and Grass Valley . The historic, old towns are really special, and frankly underrated. Stay at a bed & breakfast, swim in the Yuba River, eat good food downtown, and explore the old gold mines! Empire Mine is actually quite impressive.

Next make the scenic, windy drive to Yosemite Valley National Park . If you only have time for 1 or 2 hikes, I suggest hiking to the top of Half Dome or El Capitan , and then also exploring the valley’s waterfalls. Ideally, you want 3 days in Yosemite though.

Circle back to San Francisco to drop off your car and head home.

If you have more than 10 days for this itinerary, you can easily allot more time to Yosemite backcountry and Lake Tahoe. Another option would be to drive over the Tioga Pass all the way to Mono Lake . It is quite far, but seeing another part of the Sierra Nevadas could well be worth it.

John Muir Wilderness and Ansel Adams Wilderness are also worth exploring. Grab a trail map and hike a section of the John Muir Trail for an ultimate adventure.

2 Week California Itinerary #4: California Coast Road Trip

2 Weeks in California: Coastal Road Trip

If you want to explore some of the best coastlines in the world, look no further than this 2 week California itinerary.

Start in San Diego , then drive up the coast to the OC area. Between this section, you can stop in two or three of the following: Torrey Pines State Park, Encinitas, Oceanside, Newport, Laguna Beach, Malibu, Huntington Beach, Venice Beach or stay in Anaheim .. .

You won’t be able to see every beach, but luckily they’re all good in their own way. Consider that the OC beaches are very crowded in the summer. If you’re after your own private beach you’re going to have to wait until we head up north.

I highly suggest setting aside one or two nights on the Central Coast in  Santa Barbara  and/or San Luis Obispo . These two towns are utterly charming and you’ll have plenty of choices for beaches, hikes, wine tasting, and food in a much more relaxed and crowd-free atmosphere than further south. Staying in Santa Barbara is expensive but beautiful.

Next, spend a couple days driving up Highway 1 through Big Sur . This is the epitome of a California road trip. (Try to avoid weekends when crowds can be pretty awful.) Consider staying in Monterey or driving further north to Santa Cruz, one of my favorite California beach towns.

Continuing on Highway 1, – or Highway 101 if you’re in a time crunch – head to SF and spend a couple days exploring the city. Then, drive up the 1 through Marin Headlands. Stop for a day hike in  Mt Tamalpais.  Many of the towns in North Bay are charming, expensive, and serve pretty great food.

If this was the end of your trip, I would say stop at Muirwoods to explore the redwoods, but we’re going much farther north, where the trees are bigger and the crowds diminish. Spend a night in Point Reyes National Seashore. 

Continuing on the 1, you’ll quickly see population sizes dwindle and towns spread out. If you need to stop for groceries, get them in the North Bay before we go into no man’s land, where the lack of options correlates with expensive prices.

Driving up to  Eureka,  you’ll pass through sleepy, coastal towns like Fort Bragg . Check out the beaches around here and grab a beer at Lost Coast Brewing .

Eureka is the final stop of this California coast road trip! Around here you will have access to Humboldt ,  Redwood National Park, and the associated state parks.

I suggest a couple of nights to explore the ancient Redwood forests and coastal range. This area of California couldn’t be more different than Southern California and that is what is so incredible about it.

To fly out of California, you could drive back to SF – though take the 101 to save time – or to Sacramento .

3 Week California Itinerary #5: The Adventurist’s Itinerary

3 Weeks in California: Adventurers Only

I wrote this 3-week California itinerary for hikers, explorers, and climbers. This is the itinerary to use if you are packing a tent and your favorite outdoor gear … as you will have the opportunity to hit every single one of California’s National Parks, and plenty of state parks and wilderness areas too.

I would fly into  LA or OC,  pick up your rental and head up north to the Central Coast . Drive along the coast to SF; highlights include  Santa Barbara, SLO,   Big Sur , Santa Cruz , and San Francisco .

There is plenty of hiking and camping around Big Sur . The newest national park in the US is also located in this vicinity: Pinnacles National Park . I actually haven’t been (yet), but have heard it’s great for climbing.

From Santa Cruz to SF, surfers can find big wave surfing. Just pack your wetsuit.

Next, head up to Point Reyes National Seashore to hike around this rugged coastline.

(Should you feel up to driving a lot, tackle the most northern part of the state too. This includes the rugged Mendocino Coast and  Redwood Forest  and going further inland to the mountains and geysers or  Mount Shasta and Lassen Volcanic National Park . This part of California is sparsely populated and a world away from the cities.)

You could also skip to the next part of this itinerary and head inland instead. The foothills are home to some of the most underrated vacation spots in California, like  Nevada City,  a charming, historic mining town I mentioned above.

Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite places to visit in California, so don’t miss it. The best way to escape the crowds is to hike into Desolation Wilderness or somewhere along the Tahoe Rim Trail.

With one more week, you can really explore the Sierras – Yosemite , Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park are all gems.

Route 395 will run you through Eastern California’s most scenic places. There are plenty of national forests and wilderness in these parts too. If you are bringing backpacking gear, you will be spoilt for overnight hiking trips.

If you’re an avid adventurist go to the Eastern Sierras too. Boulder in Bishop and hike around Lone Pine .

Driving through the desert, explore Death Valley’s  dunes and valleys , and Joshua Tree National Park’s  insane rock formations. Boulderers and trad-climbers will feel right at home in Joshua Tree.

Loop back to LA to fly out of California. Expect to be a bit more exhausted, dirty, and inspired. There is a good chance you won’t be able to hit every stop on this itinerary, due to time or even weather. One month in California would be more realistic, but consider it a reason to come back.

If you want to hike, this California itinerary is best attempted in the fall before the snow returns – September – October. The desert temps will also be more manageable and the coast experiences an Indian Summer, meaning it’s less foggy up north.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Our California travel guide covers the best places to visit in the state; most of these places are included in some of the itineraries above.

Backpacking San Francisco

The hilly, eclectic city of San Francisco is easily one of the coolest cities in the US. It would take me an entire post to cover what to do in San Francisco, so thankfully, we already have a  San Francisco city guide .

Every visit to San Francisco should definitely include a picnic view of the Golden Gate Bridge , either from C rissy Field or Baker Beach , and then a walk or bike across it. You can ferry back from Sausalito, by the way.

The Mission neighborhood is the best place to get Hispanic food and indulge in San Francisco’s bar scene.

If you want to get wild, head to the Mission neighborhood’s Mission Delores Park on a sunny Saturday, where anything goes, like rum in coconuts, weed edibles, and weddings. Don’t worry, it’s also family friendly.

The Castro is  the  LBGTQ+ scene. You’ll find tons of gay bars here, and frankly just great food, eccentric shops, Soul Cycle…

When it comes to just walking around – eating and shopping – you can’t go wrong in Pac Heights, the Marina, Hayes Valley, Nob Hill, and Russian Hill. While there isn’t much to do here for tourists, you’ll find plenty of shopping, coffee shops, and good restaurants. These are among SF’s most sought after places to live too.

The Marina is often stereotyped by expensive athleisure and avocado toast.  Fort Mason  in the Marina is a fun place to picnic and day drink, and most weekends you’ll find fun events around here like beer or craft fairs.

Speaking of parks, Golden Gate Park is absolutely beautiful and frankly underrated. It’s an awesome place to go for a run, hang out, or even catch a show. Music festivals include Outside Lands in August and the Blue Grass Festival in October (which is free!).

The park is also home to the de Young Museum and the Academy of Sciences . If you’re visiting SF on a Thursday, hit the after-hours, where you can learn about science and drink at the same time.  The Exploratorium has a similar Thursday night experience.

I think that should get your inspiration flowing. There are tons of unique things to do in San Francisco, so check out my 3 day itinerary.

We have also written a separate guide for the coolest neighborhoods in SF if you want to learn more about the neighborhood layout.

Backpacking the Greater Bay Area

Across the Bay Bridge (often overlooked by the Golden Gate Bridge), you’ll find yourself in another world. Oakland and Berkeley are the East Bay’s stars. Once plagued with oppression and crime, and now gentrification, it’s an interesting area in the East Bay.

One thing is for sure, it’s home to awesome art, food, and beer over here. Beer fans, go to Fieldwords! Oakland has had a pretty rough reputation in the past, but it’s one of the most eclectic places in California.

Berkeley is famous for its local university but is a charming place to visit otherwise. This is ground zero for the 60s hippy movement, and they’re still here. The local Cal Sailing Club also offers free sailing tours in the Berkeley Marina on certain nights, which is one our favorite free things to do in California!

As you head to South Bay, pass through the Peninsula to San Jose, an area also known as “Silicon Valley,” the center of the technology industry in California and probably the entire world.

Trust me, there’s nothing exciting in the mostly suburbia area of the Peninsula; I lived in Silicon Valley for work. But head into the hills and you can reach  Big Basin and Castle Rock State Park,  awesome for hiking and climbing. Half Moon Bay is a sleepy, foggy beach town.

The back roads around here are epic for road trips and road biking.

If you’re looking for some excellent surf and a classic boardwalk carnival scene, go to  Santa Cruz .  I grew up visiting the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and beaches, and it still holds a very nostalgic place in my heart.

Catch some legendary waves and eat some amazing, wholesome food downtown. This is a great little hippy town too if you’re interested in its alternative lifestyle. Don’t be surprised to smell the grass. Head to Capitola area for ice cream with the family.

South you’ll hit Monterey  and the upscale Carmel , a charming little beach town deserve a day to be explored. This area marks the beginning of Big Sur. As you drive south, the views only become better and more dramatic.

One thing is for sure, it’s all about nature and the great outdoors here, so make sure to consider glamping in Bay Area if you love to stay amongst nature!

Backpacking North Bay

Also part of the greater Bay Area, but a world away from the above section is the region known as North Bay.

This area is mostly known for  Marin County, Petaluma,  and Napa .

As you drive up from San Francisco and across the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll enter Marin County, arguably the prettiest part of the Bay Area. This area is also where rich hippies settle down.

Check out Stinson Beach , Black Sands Beach (for a much more serene experience), and Bodega Bay for surf.

Be sure to check out Mount Tamalpais and Muir Woods  (which gets really crowded on weekends) for awesome hikes and redwood forests. Though I would argue Big Basin in South Bay (mentioned above) is better.

Inland you’ll find Napa Valley and Sonoma,  famous for their world-class wineries. Both make for excellent day-long road trips from San Francisco.

Drive up to Point Reyes National Seashore  too! This area is home to some truly incredible wide open beaches and forests. Camping reservations sell out months in advance, as you’re still relatively close to the Bay Area.

It’s possible to kayak to one of the campsites on Tomales Bay. Definitely try to snag a spot here.

Sebastopol  and Petaluma are charming towns to check out and grab a bite to eat. The area around here epitomizes the whole “happy cows come from California” stereotype, as cows really do graze on the rolling green hills. Most of your “organic” big dairy comes from this area.

Backpacking Big Sur

The dramatic coastline between Los Angeles and San Francisco is known as Big Sur. 

This part of the California Coast is one of my favorite destinations in the state. Once you cross the impressive Bixby Creek Bridge , you’re officially in Big Sur territory, though Point Lobos just north also has some great hiking and coves.

The only way to get around Big Sur is the single-lane Highway 1, which hugs the coastline, sandwiched between mountains and sea. This makes for incredible views, but also awful traffic. Try to avoid passing through on a weekend, especially in summer.

Andrew Molera State Park has some great ocean view hiking trails. Pfeiffer Beach is famous for its keyhole formation and purple sand. This is definitely worth the trip.

McWay Falls is probably the most photographed place in California. I mean, it is a waterfall that dumps straight onto a gorgeous beach.

San Simeon in the south, marks the end of Big Sur. If you have time, visit the Hearst Castle, where zebras still roam and art worth billions still hangs from the gaudy rooms. This place is crazy.

Soon after the castle, you’ll stroll into my favorite town in California, San Luis Obispo , which is where I went to college.

If you want to stay a few a days in the area, you can either camp at one of the many state grounds or stay in a town near to Big Sur. There are some beautiful VRBOs in town.

Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo

The Highway 1 merges with the 101 in San Luis Obispo. This college town is one of the golden gems of California. Both SLO and Santa Barbara county have certain ordinances that do not allow the areas to develop rapidly, meaning they keep their charming town feel.

SLO is like another planet. For one, drive-thrus are against ordinance for health reasons, sidewalks and bike lanes are wider, the landscape is green and rugged, the beach is next door, and it’s sunny and 70 more than 300 days a year.

There’s a reason Oprah once voted San Luis Obispo the happiest city in America…

San Luis Obispo is surrounded by woods, volcanic-formed hills, and rugged coastline, all of which are prime places for hiking and adventure sports. You’re never too far from a trail, wave to surf, pier to eat ice cream on, or winery to spend the afternoon. Definitely check out Avila Beach and Montaña de Oro . Los Osos has great rock climbing, and Pismo Beach has some great options for accommodation.

Farmers Market on Thursday nights is always a hit. The wine scene is actually great in the SLO area and totally underrated. Head out to  Edna Valley  or nearby Paso Robles   for a taste of fine wine without the Napa Price.

Stop for lunch (or stay if you can afford it) at the Madonna Inn . Trust me, you won’t be disappointed by this quirky hotel.

Santa Barbara is just 80 minutes south. Larger than SLO, the tempo is a bit more upbeat here, but not too much more. Really, this is where people from LA come to chill the fuck out. But there’s still plenty to do and there is a good nightlife scene downtown.

In Santa Barbara, you also have your pick of excellent beaches, wine, and awesome food. It is a bit more expensive here than SLO, FYI, which still sticks to its college town roots. (UC Santa Barbara is actually in “Isla Vista” 15 minutes north.)

South of SB, you will hit a couple of beach towns like Ventura, which lets you know you will soon be approaching the famous beaches of Malibu and the OC soon. I recommend staying in Ojai where you can see the iconic “pink moment,” when the setting sun casts a rosy glow over the Topa Topa Mountains.

Backpacking Los Angeles

The second largest city in the US is also one of the most famous places in the world, mostly because it’s a city known for its rich and famous. This is the ground zero for the country’s music and movie industries.

LA does epitomize California in a lot of ways – sunny, beautiful, and vibrant – but I always warn travelers that it’s pretty spread out and massive, and the infamous traffic makes everything feel even farther away.

I highly suggest basing yourself in the area that interests you most. Thankfully, we have already written a separate guide on the best places to stay in Los Angeles , which breaks down the city’s neighborhoods even further.

To spark your inspiration, I’ll suggest a few things you should do when visiting Los Angeles. Santa Monica has good vibes. Venice Beach is great for people watching, skating, and their food truck nights. Visit the Griffith Observatory . Hike around the Hollywood sign as the locals do.

Once crime-ridden and neglected areas like Koreatown, Silverlake, and Echo Park are on the rise.

West Hollywood is great for going out. Multi-ethnic and healthy food is all over the city.

Backpacking San Diego

When I talk to travelers about California, they often picture surfer towns, perpetual sunshine, and laidback beach vibes. Most are surprised when I tell them the water is mostly freezing and a lot of our coastline is rugged and wild. Well, up north anyway.

What most people actually imagine is sunny San Diego, the perfect Southern California destination. This beach city is known for its amazing weather, excellent surf, fish tacos, and craft beer. Do you need anything else in life!?

Aside from Balboa Park , the best places to visit in San Diego are the many coastal neighborhoods and beaches, like  Coronado , Mission , La Jolla , and Pacific . Refer to our comprehensive San Diego city guide  for more in-depth information.

The Gaslamp Quarter (Downtown), Mission and North Park are the best places to go out at night in San Diego.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in San Diego, be sure to check out our SD hostel guide for some great tips and reviews!

Backpacking Sacramento

Sacramento where? I fondly think of Sacramento as the forgotten state capitol of California. Which by the way is a shame! Growing up near Sacramento, I have a special place in my heart for “Sac-town.” It’s mostly business and government, but the town has been undergoing a massive face lift and there are a lot of things to do in Sacramento.

Cool bars, breweries, and restaurants are opening up all the time. Sacramento now calls itself the Farm to Fork City; expect the food and produce to be top notch.

Truly, the farmers markets in the nearby counties – where I’m from – are some of the best. (California grows 75% of the United States’ food, and much of the best, freshest produce comes from the Foothills, home to a ‘Mediterranean Climate’ and year round goodies.)

Old Town Sacramento – which still resembles the mining towns of the 1800s is fun to check out on a first visit to Sacramento too.

If anything, stop through Mid-Town for lunch and a beer. If you stay overnight, check out the Ace of Spades , which has some pretty awesome concerts.

Take a stroll around J Street and 40th Street to check out the “Fab 40” houses. Once known as the “city of trees,” this area is especially festive in Fall for foliage and around the holidays for Christmas decorations.

If you’re visiting Sacramento on a road trip, consider checking out one of the motels in Sacramento which are perfect for those with a vehicle.

Backpacking Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite places in California, if not the world. I visit Lake Tahoe multiple times a year, often celebrating my anniversary here. It’s that good.

Lying deep in the Sierra Nevada on the border of the state of Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in the USA, best known for its deep blue and turquoise waters, so much so, the slogan you’ll see on every bumper sticker is, “keep Tahoe blue.”

Two main highways will take you to Lake Tahoe from the west,  Highway 50 (to South Lake) and 80 (to North Lake). Each side of the lake has a different vibe and list of things to do.

South Lake Tahoe neighborhoods are the most developed and the largest out there. It’s well known for its casinos (on the Nevada side) so it has more of a party stereotype, especially for the Fourth of July and New Years.

Heavenly  is the main and biggest ski resort on the south side, and there are quite a few smaller alpine lakes and trails to explore around here that sit at a much higher elevation than Lake Tahoe.

The west shores are home to the inlet called  Emerald Bay.  Hike the Rubicon trail around here for awesome views. You can also access Desolation Wilderness from this area.  Bliss Beach is another gem on the western shores.

If you want to ski in winter, but don’t want to break the bank, I can recommend Homewood – much smaller (and cheaper) than the other ski resorts around Tahoe.

North Lake is defined by Tahoe City and King’s Beach . Also a beautiful part of Lake Tahoe, this side is much quieter and more laidback, home to Tahoe’s alternative lifestyles. Trust me, you won’t find many casinos here.

In the winter, resorts like Squaw Valley and  North Star are world famous for skiing and boarding. (The 1960 Winter Olympics took place at Squaw Valley.)

The east side is Nevada, but also home to some awesome beaches and beautiful waters. Definitely check it out.

If you’re looking for a piece of American history, try taking a detour over Donner Pass  on Highway 80, a famous road in California due in part to the story of the Donner Party . Donner Lake is quite pretty too.

And speaking of Donner Lake, keep in mind that there are many other alpine lakes in the surrounding area, which are beautiful and great to hike around when the Tahoe summer crowds get to be too much.

Summer is the most popular time of year to visit Lake Tahoe. Swimmers, hikers, and boaters all enjoy the crystal clear (and very cold) water. You can even river raft down the Truckee weather. There are dozens of gorgeous beaches and hiking/biking trails, both obvious and hidden, around Lake Tahoe.

I love visiting in the fall when the crowds thin out but the water temperatures are still manageable. I highly suggest renting kayaks or standup paddleboards for a couple hours. If you’re visiting in the winter, snowshoeing is another great option versus hitting the ski resorts.

The opening of the ski season varies wildly depending on the year as the climate is becoming increasingly unpredictable.

Backpacking Yosemite

One of the most incredible places in California is  Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada . Sacred to rock climbers, thru-hikers, naturalists, and anyone with two eyeballs, Yosemite is one of the best places to experience California nature.

Yosemite is a 4-hour drive away from the Bay Area. You’ll drive along the 508 and Highway 5 through the Central Valley before merging onto the 120 , which will take you all the way to the edge of the park.

Keep in mind the park itself is  massive. It would take hours to drive around it, and there are thousands of backcountry trails within Yosemite wilderness.

Yosemite Valley is the most famous part of Yosemite, where the famous Granite rocks shoot up to the sky. This is also where you’ll find the visitor center , Yosemite Village , which is where most people stay , and some of Yosemite’s most easy-going hikes.

It’s also the beginning of some pretty strenuous hikes that take you out of the valley 3,000 feet up, like the famous Half Dome hike and 4 Mile  to Glacier Point.

Vernal/Nevada Falls via Mist , and Yosemite Falls are spectacular too. Several viewpoints, like Tunnel View and Glacier Point View, are accessible by car as well.

Make sure to dip in the freezing cold Merced River  and hike to a waterfall while you’re here!

The only first-come first-serve campsite in the valley is Camp 4 , notorious in the rock climbing world. Here is where sports climbing reigns, as the pros climb up the likes of El Capitan and Half Dome, 3,000 feet.

Beyond Yosemite Valley, the 120 is also one of the most beautiful and famous roads in California because it goes over the Tioga Pass . into high Yosemite country.

Here you can get on the John Muir Trail (a 211 mile trail that goes from Yosemite to the Sequoias and also part of the much larger PCT.) Views are plentiful and astounding in the summer but during the winter the pass is closed.

If you are visiting more than one national park on your California trip, we highly suggest buying an America the Beautiful pass. It allows unlimited entry to all national parks for one year, and only costs $80 (limit one per vehicle).

Backpacking the Redwoods

Speaking of epic National Parks, the state parks around the northern Redwoods that make up Redwoods National Park are one of my favorite places in the world! This area is a series of protected forests, beaches, and grasslands along the Northern California coast.

Hike among the ancient Redwood Forests under the canopy of the world’s tallest organisms. The trails are fairly moderate, so everyone can enjoy them. And I promise you, the service in the Redwoods is virtually non-existent, but the connection to nature is definitely strongest.

There are loads of places to stay in the Redwoods , so if you want to explore the area a bit longer, you should definitely opt for a nearby accommodation.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is where you’ll find the  Avenue of the Giants, a scenic redwood tree-lined highway.  Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park has trails through dense old-growth woods.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is home to Fern Canyon and Roosevelt elk frequent nearby Elk Prairie. Giant redwood clusters include Redwood National Park’s Lady Bird Johnson Grove.

For help planning your trip, visit the National Park Service site here .

National Parks in California

With 9 in total , California is the state with the most national parks in the USA . If you pack your tent and camping supplies, you can stay busy for a lifetime. As I mentioned in the Yosemite section, make sure to buy an American the Beautiful Pass to see multiple parks for $80.

• Yosemite – Yosemite is ground zero inspiration for naturalists, climbers, and photographers. Here are some of the most imposing, most dramatic, and most beautiful rock walls in the entire world. There are plenty of ways to get into the backcountry with a permit.
• Kings Canyon/Sequoia – Two separate national parks that are located right next to each other. Staying in Sequoia National Park is especially popular amongst nature lovers as it’s famous for its towering sequoia trees e.g. General Sherman,  Mariposa Grove , and Tunnel Tree . Kings Canyon is a craggy, mountainous terrain that is typical of the High Sierra. Lake Marjorie in Kings is one of the most beautiful places in California. Much less visited than Yosemite, you can really get off the grid around here.
• Death Valley – One of the lowest and hottest places on Earth! Characterized by high mountains, surreal geology, and the tallest dunes in North America. Visit Dante’s View, Mesquite Dunes, and Zabriskie Point.
• Joshua Tree – Very popular place for boulderers, trad rock climbers, and Los Angeles weekenders. Unique flora and fauna and arguably the best stargazing in the state make Joshua one of the best places to pitch up a tent in California.
• Redwood – One of the lushest and most ancient places in California. Hike around the tall Redwoods and coastal range.
• Lassen Volcanic – Lesser-visited park in Northern California. A very geologically active place full of bubbling lakes and active volcanoes. A little Yellowstone.
• Pinnacles – Small and newest National Park in the country, but significant for its rock formations and caves. Great for rock climbers and hikers.
• Channel Islands – Islands that have huge ecological diversity. Good for whale watching, scuba diving, kayaking, and hiking.

If you’re interested in camping but without roughing it, then you might like these awesome glamping sites in Southern California .

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

Off the Beaten Path in California

California is an absolutely massive state and there are plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path. Basically, you should get away from the coast stretching from LA to SF to get off the beaten path, but even then there are plenty of hidden beaches and towns.

If you want to get really off the grid, hike along the  Lost Coast near Eureka. The Lost Coast is one of the most underdeveloped and remote places in California, so rugged they had to abandon plans to build the Highway along this section of the coast. Really though, anywhere this far north can be considered off the beaten path, so much so this area is notorious for attracting people trying to escape their past and get off the grid.

Look at a map, and any forest labeled wilderness is probably a good bet for getting away from crowds. Examples include Ansel Adams Wilderness and  John Muir Wilderness.  Ansel Adams was a famous landscape photographer and John Muir is the legend who helped preserve California’s nature.

The John Muir and Ansel Adams Wilderness has some of the most beautiful natural attractions in all of California including Thousand Islands Lake/Minaret Lake , Bear Lakes Basin , and Sailor Lake .

Anywhere in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas is also pretty off the grid. Travel between Lone Pine and Bishop for the best of the Eastern Sierra.

For more inspiration, here are 50 of my favorite places to visit in California .

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

California has plenty of fancy resorts, boutique hotels, cool apartments, and bed & breakfasts. This California travel guide will give you the low down.

While you have plenty of options for places to stay in California, most of them are not cheap. California – and the US for that matter – do not cater to backpackers well. In other words, your pickings for budget accommodation are slim.

My first suggestion is to camp. Camp, camp, camp. Not only is it the cheapest option for accommodation in California, but truly, one of the best ways to see California’s nature.

Once you’re in the towns and cities, camping isn’t really an option, so save your money for these times.

Cheap hotels in California are bland and bleak, and often in the less desirable places and neighborhoods, but they get the job done. You’ll be paying at least $80/night for a room.

Hostels in California are actually quite nice and the most affordable accommodation for solo travelers. You won’t find many hostels outside of the main cities, however, and these dorm beds can be upwards of $50 a night.

Airbnbs in California are usually a better option than hotels, but do your research and check all of your options. Remember, Airbnb actually started in SF, as did Couchsurfing for that matter.

Camping in California

I’ll start this section with the bad news; California might be the hardest US state to camp for free, especially if you’re camping on the beach or coast. Most US states have thousands and thousands of acres of public land and free campsites.

You’re going to have to work harder to find free and wild camping in California, but I promise you it is not impossible.

I truly believe camping is the  best way to visit California’s natural wonders. Nothing beats sleeping under the stars among the joshua trees, within arm’s length of redwood forests, on top of the famous Sierra granite, or nearby crashing waves.

Let’s cover the basics of camping in California. Camping is  never  free within State and National Parks. Most campsites are at least $25 a night in these parks. You can get a backcountry permit, however, for just a few dollars and sometimes for free.

Any protected area is going to also require a permit, though again, it might be free. Regardless, you will have to pick up permits (and bear canisters) at the visitor center of said park.

National forests, Public Land managed by the Federal Bureau (known as BLM), grasslands, and other federal areas do allow free camping, though you will almost always have to bring your own water and carry out your own trash. Make sure to dig a proper hole for the bathroom too, and please, practice “leave no trace principles,”  always.

The areas where you can camp for free are pretty much nowhere near the coast, FYI. There are free places to camp that dot the coast, but they are rare and not always easy to get to. The farther north you go, the better your chances of free and/of crowd-free camping.

The northeastern part of California is the exception, as there are plenty of free camping spots.

If you are looking for a free campsite in California, or anywhere in the United States for that matter, check out this website.

If you are in the market for a solid, lightweight, and reliable tent, I highly recommend the  MSR Hubba Hubba 2-person tent . To get to know this tent better, check out Chris’s in-depth  MSR Hubba Hubba Review .

There are a number of free campgrounds in California that road-trippers should totally take advantage of. Refer below for a list of these. Note that electricity, bathrooms, and running water are not guaranteed at any of the grounds. Bring water just in case.

Well holy shit, to narrow down the top things to do in California to ten is quite a challenge, but let’s give it a shot:

1. Drive along the California Coast

Nothing is more quissentential than a road trip along the California Coast – Highway 101 to 1, specifically. It’s in the movies and TV shows we grew up on.

The most famous stretch of coastal highway has got to be Big Sur , but if you really want to go big, follow my California Itinerary (#2) and road trip from San Diego to Eureka and see everything the California coast has to offer.

2. Walk or Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco’s star attraction is quite incredible. One of the best things to do in San Fracisco is walk or bike across.

3. Visit Yosemite Valley

I have already talked about Yosemite Valley a couple times in this California travel guide, and once you get here it’ll be easy to see why.

Yosemite is amazing year-round; hike in the summer, watch the leaves turn in the valley in the fall, go snowshoeing and ice skating in the winter, and catch the waterfalls at full force in the spring.

4. Surf in San Diego

This is as close as you’ll get to Baja California, Mexico, without actually crossing the border. Here you’ll find California’s warmest waters and best fish tacos.

5. Take a Hike

California is home to some of the best hikes in the USA . You are absolutely spoilt for choices. The Sierras are pristine for alpine lakes and mountains. The Redwoods  and Sequoia forests are indescribable. You can hit some epic coastal trails in Point Reyes National Shore and up north, along the Central Coast , and more.

6. Eat Mexican Food

Mexican food is arguably better in California than Mexico. Wait, did I just write that? I know I’m not crazy because I’ve had Mexican friends say that Californians take on Mexican food is absolutely incredible.

Let me introduce you to a couple of reasons why: burritos (a Californian thing by the way), tacos (revolutionized in California), and avocado (where the trend began).

Californian Mexican food is all about giant burritos, tons of veggies and  fajitas , fish tacos, and guacamole. It’s nothing like Tex-Mex, by the way, as there is more emphasis on veggies, avocado, and seafood.

Best places to eat Mexican food have to be the Mission neighborhood in San Francisco, LA, and anywhere in San Diego, but really you can find a good spot anywhere in the state with a little help from Yelp.

7. Visit Venice Beach

Surf and Sand. Skateboarding subculture. Good food and strange people. That is Venice. Oh, and some of the best people watching anywhere in the USA.

8. Paddle on Lake Tahoe or Hit the Slopes

Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland, a summer wonderland, and everything in between. Hit the slopes, trails, and lake shores for ultimate bliss.

9. Watch a Sports Game

There are so many professional sports teams in California, it would take me a while to list them all. You can get MLB bench seats for as little as $10 sometimes.

Go watch the Warriors kick ass at Oracle Arena or Lebron throw down in his new home with the LA Lakers . Basketball, baseball, NFL football, hockey, surfing: there is a sports event for everyone in California!

Tip: Go watch a college game to get the full American sports experience. When it comes to football, it’s all about UC Berkeley, USC, and UCLA in California. Prepare to tailgate, in other words, start drinking beer at 8 am. Other recommendations include catching a minor league baseball game (like the River Cats in Sacramento).

10. Go to a Music Festival or Concert

Have you ever heard of Coachella ? It’s one of the most famous festivals in the world and is every bit as awesome as the magazines say it is, sporting the best headliners and soon to be discovered artists as well as next year’s celebrity fashion trends. But tickets cost an arm and a leg, and they’re harder to score than one on one against LeBron.

Other epic festivals include multi-genre Outside Lands in SF for chill park vibes. Lightning in a Bottle or Symbiosis for alternative arts, yoga, and electronic music. Stagecoach for country music taking place in Coachella Valley after Coachella. Crossed in San Diego.

If you’re into electronic music, I must recommend catching a show in LA or heading to an Insomniac Event . California rave culture is pretty unique and the best in the country, arguably better than anywhere in Europe too.

Also, the music scene in San Francisco is pretty fun. You can catch a live show any day of the week. Oakland’s Fox Theater is one of my favorite venues in Northern California. For more intimate concerts, check out Rickshaw Shop in SF.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

I have covered tons of essential information for backpacking California below. This California travel guide includes costs and how to budget for a trip to California, what to wear, how to travel, etc.

Books to Read when Backpacking in California

Here are some of my favorite books set in Honduras:

Scar Tissue – The auto-biography of the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s lead vocalist, Anthony Kiedes “rocked” my world the first time I read it. The story is about his entire life, from growing up in the City of Angels surrounded by drugs and bad influences, to becoming a rockstar. Any RHCP fan should read this; even if you’re not a fan, you’ll enjoy this book as it’s an inside look into Hollywood in the 70s through 90s.

The Mountains of California – The musings and ramblings of John Muir, one of the most famous and beloved naturalism in American history.

Slouching Towards Bethlehem – A collection essays about some of California’s greatest icons including John Wayne, Howard Hughes, and the Haight neighborhood of San Fran.

Big Sur – In Jack Kerouac’s semi-autobiographical character, Jack Duluoz, we see a man who goes to Big Sur to find himself again after struggling with the comedown from his carefree past and newfound fame.

Lonely Planet Coastal California – It’s sometimes worth traveling with a guidebook.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

The short answer is yes, very much so. I have lived in California my entire life without worrying about violence or petty theft. Then again, I grew up in a small town. The USA can be dangerous , but so can anywhere.

The cities are another matter, but like any city in the world, don’t leave your stuff unattended or in a car window’s view, especially overnight. There are certain parts of LA, SF, Oakland, etc. you’ll want to avoid at night. Just use your common sense and you will definitely be fine.

Outside of the cities, you will pass through many small towns and rural areas where crime is much, much lower. If you’re coming to Cali for a meditation retreat , it’s unlikely that crime is going to be an issue.

Honestly, the main thing to watch for are wild animals on the road when you are driving. I see a couple deer everyday.

On the subject of nature, California is home to just about all climates and weather patterns. Be careful when you’re out there. Carry water when you’re hiking in the heat, and be prepared for snowy conditions in the winter.

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in California

You will be spoilt for options when it comes to partying and unwinding in California. The wine is superb, the beer is endless, the bars are raucous, and weed is legalized, though remember my young backpackers, the drinking and marijuana age is 21 and over in the USA.

All of the larger California cities have plenty to do at night. Los Angeles and San Francisco, in particular, have some of the best nightlife in the country: dives, raunchy dance floors, speakeasies, country bars, and underground raves are at your fingertips.

Partying in the big cities will almost always be expensive. Cover charges are exorbitant in places like Hollywood and the price of drinks/drugs is not far behind. An average cocktail will be around $14. A beer (though strong, like 7%+ will be $8).

On the other hand, California has some cheapest retail prices for booze in the entire USA. There are alcohol superstores in California that are dangerously inexpensive, and you can buy alcohol in any grocery store in California (which is not the case in many states).

I sincerely suggest sampling California beer and wine throughout your trip.  Whole Foods, believe it or not, has the best selection of beer and wine when it comes to grocery stores. Bevmo specializes in liquor so they will have more options than you can handle.

For the full experience, however, make sure to stop into a tap room, local microbrewery, and winery. California has the most breweries of any state, and probably the most wineries.

Weed is legal in California! To buy weed in California, all you need to do is have a valid ID that proves you’re over 21 years of age and go to a dispensary . Dispensaries look and behave very much like any bottle shop with educated clerks and a wide selections of strains. Note that dispensaries only accept cash .

Travel Insurance for California

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

What to pack for California will largely depend on which part of the state you are visiting, and what time of the year it will be. Southern California is generally temperate near the coast, but as you go inland , the entire state is boisterously hot in the summer and cold in the winter.

San Francisco and the northern coast are bi-polar. You can get sunny days in February and foggy, cold days in August. Best to check the latest weather reports.

Be sure to pack some good shoes if you plan on exploring the cities and/or engaging in outdoor activities. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra day bag to carry with you to the beach or for big sightseeing days.

Here are some other essentials that we recommend if you plan on camping out…

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full backpacking packing list or our beach packing list if you’re headed on a beach vacation!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to California

There really isn’t a bad time to visit California, but it depends what you are after. Keep in mind the coastal parts of Southern California have pretty much the same weather year round. This is one of the reasons this part of the world is so famous, after all.

It rarely dips below the high 60s in Southern California, but the rest of the state is home to different climates and temps.

My favorite time of the year in California is definitely spring, specifically April and May.

California is at its greenest – the only time it’s still so green, really – and the weather is generally sunny, with some rainy days here and there.

Summer is the best for beach vacations and long days to explore – sun sets around 9 in summer, but it’s also the most crowded time along the coastline and in the National Parks .

September – November is another great time to visit California, minus the wildfire season 🙁 If there are no fires, it’s a great time for camping: great weather but thinner crowds and still no snow in the mountains. Fall foliage at the end of October and November can be really beautiful.

Much of the Central and Northern California coast experiences what is called an “Indian summer” in the fall, meaning there are sunnier and clearer days.

Winter is great for snow sports and snowshoeing. The ocean is too cold to enjoy, unless you’re a bad-ass surfer, but you can still have some nice hiking days and chill on the beach.

Apps to Download before Backpacking California

Maps.Me   – Prone to getting lost or taking that ‘shortcut’ that adds another few hours onto a simple walk? This app is definitely for you. My favorite offline maps app, download your map and route before you venture out to keep you on track while backpacking California.

XE Currency  – I used this a lot when backpacking abroad, and it is a great help while calculating expenses.

HIDE.ME  –  I always have a VPN ready to go on both my phone and laptop, I personally use  Hide Me  which is one of the fastest and most reliable options out there. This particular VPN allows for up to five connections which is handy for keeping all your devices connected without having to purchase multiple VPN packages.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

There are multiple airports in California, the biggest international airport being LAX , but there are a lot of other Southern California airports you can fly into, like the OC’s JWA .

SFO is the largest international airport up north, but look at prices into Oakland and San Jose’s international airports too.

Even Sacramento International Airport has some good deals once and a while, but generally, if you are flying from Europe or Asia, the Bay Area will have better deals. That said, check Sacramento if you are flying domestic or from Mexico, depending on what your California itinerary looks like.

Definitely consider an open jaw ticket if you are road tripping from north to south or vice versa.

Many cities and larger towns have domestic or private airports, though these are generally expensive to fly into.

How to Travel in California

Undoubtedly the best way to travel in California is by car . This is the best place in the world to take a road trip! This may also be your largest expense (including gas) so try to plan a trip with a group, or at least one other person.

Fear not, if you do not have a car, there are ways of getting around California. The bus is going to be your cheapest bet, and I’m actually a fan of getting from city to city via Megabus . They’re extremely cheap, comfortable, have WiFi on board, etc.

Amtrak trains link most cities, but tickets are pretty expensive. Still, this may be your best bet depending on where you are going.

Renting a Car or Campervan in California

Renting a car is the most popular way of getting around California. There are a myriad of car rental agencies in the USA that offer varying deals and varying models. Refer to a search engine website, like Kayak , to compare prices.

You can also rent an RV in California, which means you don’t have to worry about packing camping gear. They cost a bit more to rent, but they do make for some epic travel stories! You can check RVShare for rental prices.

We mentioned before that you can reach out to vehicle relocation services, like immova and Cruise America , as a way of saving heaps of cash on rentals. Pursue these as best you can as they can save you a lot of money. Don’t get your hopes up too much though, as availability is always limited.

Companies like Juicy Rentals rent converted vans, perfect for camping or going to a festival.

The roads in California are generally very good and a sedan or economy car should drive you to most of California’s top destinations. Only in the most remote portions of the state and the Sierra Nevada will the roads be so bad that you need 4×4 or at least high clearance.

If you are searching for free camping, I highly suggest a car with high clearance. Most fire roads are pretty rural. If you’re on a road trip in California in the winter and want to go to the mountains, you will definitely need all-wheel or 4-wheel drive, or at the very least chains.

Hitchhiking in California

Well, I’ve never had to hitch in California (at least with strangers) but it’s relatively straightforward. I don’t see hitchhikers that often, but I did pick up a Japanese backpacker in Yosemite! He was heading to the Grand Canyon and the NYC! Really hope he made it.

As always, use your instincts. If somebody or a place gives you bad vibes, stop hitching and take the bus.

Onward Travel from California

Wait you’re leaving?! Just kidding. California shares a border with Mexico’s Baja California, where Californians escape the crowds and head for the surf. It is relatively self explanatory to cross overland via car…

Otherwise, you can continue an epic road trip into Oregon in the north, or Arizona to hit the southwest.

Let’s be frank here: a trip to California is not going to be cheap. Daily expenses (and taxes) are driving Californians to move to other states in search for cheaper homes; nevertheless, do not be discouraged, fellow backpackers.

There are ways to backpack California on a budget, and I’m going to show you how in this California travel guide. After all, when I travel around California, I cannot afford your average California vacation budget every time either.

Let’s start with a realistic vacation budget. If you want to go on a California road trip , covering a lot of ground, staying in hotels, and dining out pretty often, then you’re going to want to budget around $200 – $250 a day.

This includes your biggest expenses: lodging, food, a rental car and gas as well as play money for dining, drinking, and certain attractions.

The easiest way to cut this budget in half is to go on a California road trip with a group, or at least one other person. This way you can split rental fees, gas, lodging, and grocery runs. I would say a couple can spend $100 each per day with a car rental and lodging included. A group can spend even less.

The largest cost will definitely be your rental car, as it is unavoidable for a road trip. We suggest visiting California outside of peak season for cheaper prices. This way you will also get much cheaper lodging prices.

Gas prices are cheaper than say, Europe, but gas taxes are more expensive in California. Moreover, you will probably cover a lot of ground in one of the largest states, so this is an inevitable cost. Use apps like ViaMichelin to find cheap gas.

Don’t want to spend over $100 a day on your trip? Yeah, me neither. Here’s how to travel in California as a backpacker with more like $60-100 a day .

Don’t try to cover massive distances. A few of my California itineraries stick to one or two regions. You can save a lot on gas. Second, explore California’s nature instead.

In my opinion, the best places to visit in California are nowhere near the cities and the best things to do in the Sierras, on the coast, etc. are  free!

Moreover, by exploring the coast and mountains, you can  camp instead of stay in hotels, which will save you hundreds and hundreds of dollars… A regular car camping site will cost you anywhere from free (see my “wild camping in California” section above) to $35 dollars per site (usually up to 6 people though!).

The more expensive sites are in the National Parks or very nice private facilities, and sites over $30 are rare. I would say most cost more like $20-25. Compared to a $100 night motel, this is quite a steal and puts you front and center of some of the most beautiful places in the USA.

Don’t rent a car in the cities, or if anything, just rent a car for a day trip or two. You can get around via public transportation just fine.

Finally, lodging, food and drink can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it. If you rarely eat out and shop at grocery stores instead, you can save a lot of money. This is where you can really bring the costs down, which I’ll break down in the next section with many more budget hacks for California.

Rental car per day:  $30-$100

RV rental:  $100-$300

Gallon of gas:  $3.65

Private AirBnB home:  $100-$200

Hotel room:  $100-$250

Dorm Bed in a Hostel :  $25-$45

Campground:  $15-$35 (sometimes free!)

Sandwich:  $8-$12

Lunch at nice café:  $10-15

Beer at a bar:  $5-$8

Bottle of Whiskey:  $18

Dinner for two:  $60-$80

1 National Park Entrance:  $25 a car/3 days

Annual National Park Entrance:  $80 a car

State Park Entrance:  $10-15 a car

Disneyland Ticket for Adult:  $100, yikes

Kayak Rental by hour:  $20

Money in California

As the rest of the USA, California runs on the USD, which I’m sure you need no introduction to. Everything is available cashless these days; even food trucks, farmer’s markets, and small shops have a Squarespace chip for credit cards.

It’s still nice to carry cash just in case, and tipping at restaurants is always better in cash. Which reminds me, don’t forget to tip when visiting the US, especially at sit down restaurants, where the typical tip is 18%…!

You’ll find ATMs at any bank, gas station, mall, or large shopping center. Banks charge a fee if you don’t belong to their bank, however, so check with your bank as to what international withdrawal fees look like. I travel with a debit card without fees.

Backpacking California Budget Travel Hacks

Camp: There is no shortage of places to camp in California. California truly is one of the best places to camp in the world! Not only will you save a lot of money, but you’ll be front and center of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, mountains, forests, and deserts.

Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking. If you have a set itinerary, make sure to  reserve ahead!  If you want a facilitated campsite or plan to visit the most popular places (Yosemite, the coast, etc.) reservable sites fill fast, especially in the summer.

Cook your own food:  When the average casual meal costs over $12, and a sit down at least $30 with tip, not including alcohol, cooking for yourself will save you hundreds of dollars… Need I say more? Plus, the produce and food is excellent in California. Enjoy it.

Travel with a  portable backpacking stove  to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across California. This is the best way to save money and if you plan an overnight hike or camping trip, having a backpacking stove will be ESSENTIAL. My two personal go-to stoves are the  MSR Pocket Rocket 2  and my  Jetboil .

Go to the Beach:  Aside from the occasional State Park entrance fee, going to the beach is free!

Walk:  Stretch your legs and use your legs. The best way to save money is by walking around cities.

Spend time outdoors: I should continue to emphasize this. Spending time outdoors is not only rewarding but pretty much free. This is the best way to backpack California on a budget.

Rent an economy car: Prices can be as low as $25/day depending on the time of year and how far in advance you reserve. Economy cars are also the most fuel efficient so you’ll save on gas.

Don’t Wine Taste in Napa:  The prices around Napa and the North Bay are incredulous. You can still do some amazing wine tasting in SLO, Santa Barbara, the Foothills, Lodi, and more.

Use vehicle relocation services: These brilliant services offer huge discounts to people on the condition they get a vehicle to a certain place at a certain time. No joke, you can rent a car sometimes for as low as $1/day! Availability is very limited though, so keep a watchful eye on the sites. Check Immova and Cruise America to start with.

Do free shit: There are lots of free things to do in California! From hiking to exploring famous monuments like the Golden Gate Bridge!

Buy an America the Beautiful Pass : If you are visiting multiple national parks you would be silly not to buy one, as it gives you unlimited entry for a year.

Pack a travel water bottle : It’s good for your wallet and the environment.

Volunteer in California

Long-term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in California whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than World Packers . World Packers is an excellent platform connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world.

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project. World Packers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world.

Broke Backpacker readers get a special discount of $20 – just use this discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and membership is discounted from $49 a year to $29.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Teaching English in California

Are you a native English speaker looking to earn cash whilst traveling the world? Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to  start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL  (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Internet in California

Internet in California is just fine. Any lodging or café is probably going to have free wi-fi and service is fast and available. That said, getting a SIM card as an international traveler isn’t as cheap as other countries.

Once you get into nature, like Big Sur, Yosemite, the mountains, etc. there will be very spotty and unreliable service. Use this as a time to digitally detox.

Meet the People in California

Californians are stereotypically more laidback. Even people in cities move at a much slower pace than say, New York City.

There is generally a more health conscious and active lifestyle to be found in California due to accessible outdoor places, temperate weather, fresh produce, and plenty of options.

There are exceptions to this stereotype of course, but, generally, I think Californians love to get outside, hike, bike, ski, surf, etc. And why wouldn’t we, considering it’s all in our backyard?

For the most part, no one in California dresses formal day to day. Ties are rarely worn to the office. Again, unlike our Eastern state counterparts, the style here is more laidback.

It’s actually pretty common to wear leggings and sweatshirts out in public, which may or may not surprise international travelers.

California is known for being open-minded and liberal, specifically in coastal cities and towns. I also grew up in one of the “reddest” counties in California, so I can vouch that the typical “liberal California” stereotype does not hold true for the entire state.

While California has some of the most populous cities in the US, there are also a lot of rural, mountain, and farming towns here. Remember, California grows 75% of the country’s food! There is also a large migrant population and generally, the state is quite diverse, specifically in the cities.

What I’m trying to say is that San Francisco and LA are completely different than the towns a couple of hours inland. Like completely different. If you have an opportunity to road trip through California, you will see that California is quite diverse, not just by climate and terrain, but by religion, politics and economic standing.

That said, California is a blue state, meaning most voters lean towards liberal social views, and California has some of the most liberal environmental laws and taxes.

Food in California

California is consistently rated by several national publications as one of the top states in the country for foodies. Thanks to its bountiful crops, large immigrant population, and demand for high-quality products, California is simply one of the best places to eat, and you can sample awesome food from all around the world!

This wouldn’t be a California travel guide without going into detail on the food.

Los Angeles and San Diego are most famous for their amazing and authentic Mexican food, which, really is the best you’ll find north of the border.

San Francisco has great Mexican food too, but is even more known for its Asian food: Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai, India, you name it.

San Francisco has more restaurants per capita than anywhere in the country, so you are spoilt for choices. The only thing holding you back from trying all of the food in SF is your wallet.

Refer to the LA and SF city guides for more information on restaurants and food there.

Sacramento , considered the breadbasket of California, has an amazing farm-to-table food scene. It’s one of the greatest hidden culinary gems in the state. Expect excellent farmers markets year round.

The most famous fast food restaurant, and the only fast food I’ll ever recommend, is  In-and-Out Burger . Try it on a California road trip, and order the animal style.

And on that note, you should definitely get greasy breakfast food at a 24 hour diner at least once if this is your first trip to the US. Tastes best after a night of debauchery at 4am.

If you’re trying to stick to a budget in California, you’ll have to limit how much you eat out. You’ll find a grocery store (or supermarket as we call them) pretty much anywhere.

The cheapest places to buy groceries in California tend to be Costco (though you need a membership card), Winco, Wal-mart, etc. Grocery Outlet actually has good deals, and I score some pretty great organic food and snacks here for much cheaper than normal markets.

On the opposite front, Whole Foods, Sprouts, and the Nugget are the famous health food supermarkets. However, I always try to support local co-ops and farmer’s markets too. Rely upon food trucks when in the cities if you do eat out and small town diners in rural areas.

Festivals in California

You are absolutely spoilt for choices when it comes to festivals in California. Below are a few of my favorites.

New Years – Dec 31-Jan 1:  A huge celebration across the world. The most popular places to celebrate are naturally the cities, where you can find great parties, live shows, and music festivals, especially in Southern California. Resort towns are also popular, especially for cabin /ski getaways, namely Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lake .

Coachella, Coachella Valley – April: One of the most popular music festivals in the world. While I would say it has changed quite a lot in recent years thanks to social media and the likes, the festival still gets the  best music acts of the moment. Not just the headliners, but the soon to be discovered. This is the festival that kicks off the year.

Lightning in a Bottle,  Memorial Day Weekend – Central Coast: On the subject of music festivals, this one couldn’t be more different than Coachella. It focuses on art, sustainability, and yoga just as much as the music, which is mostly electronic. Famous for the “Do Lab” also found at Coachella. Good vibes.

Fourth of July: Celebrated with BBQs and fireworks across the nation, join in for a day of debauchery. The best places to celebrate are anywhere near a body of water, including the OC, San Diego,  and Lake Tahoe.  That said, these places get crowded and expensive. Maybe best to avoid…

Outside Lands, SF – August:  Another multi-genre music festival, Outside Lands festival is much more relaxed than Coachella, taking place in Golden Gate Park surrounded by trees and the likes. One of my favorite festivals in California, though the line-up can be hit or miss.

Nocturnal Wonderland, San Bernardino – September: No one does electronic music festivals better than Insomniac Events. Nocturnal Wonderland is one of their most famous festivals (behind EDC in Vegas of course). If you’re into EDM or want to experience the SoCal rave scene, any one of their events is bound to be a good time. Others include Escape Wonderland (Halloween), and Beyond Wonderland in March.

Halloween, October 31st:  Another holiday hugely celebrated in the US. Dress up in a fun or scary costume and go out on the town. If you’re traveling with family, join the trick-or-treat festivities.

Thanksgiving, Thursday in November: An American holiday to celebrate family and everything we are grateful for. Most families get together over a huge meal, the main dishes include turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mash potatoes, and pumpkin pie. If you are traveling in California during the third Thursday of November, keep in mind many businesses will be closed and many people will be traveling that week.

Christmas, Dec 25th:  The holidays are a wonderful time to visit California. Most places will be decorated and lit up like a Christmas Tree. Going Christmas Light viewing is a great activity too, just bring the spiked hot cocoa. Southern California is still generally sunny and 70 degrees; whereas, the snow will (hopefully) be dumping in the mountains.

If I sparked your interest in the music scene in California, I only touched on a few of the many amazing festivals in California. There are at least 30 music and arts festivals year round, ranging from EDM and folk to rock and country. One quick google search will point you in the direction of festivals like Symbiosis , Desert Daze , and Stagecoach !

Trekking in California

The trekking in California is absolutely endless; I don’t even know where to begin! The most accessible trails with high reward for little effort will generally be in the National Parks, though not always!

If you’re willing to hike several miles with a tent and camping supplies, you can find yourself in some of the most beautiful places in the state.

This wouldn’t be a California travel guide without some hiking inspiration. Here is a list of my favorite/the most popular hikes in California :

John Muir Trail: While I’ve yet to actually hike the entire trail, this is arguably the best part of the famous Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The JMT stretches from Yosemite to Sequoia over 211 miles.

Half Dome, Yosemite:  One of the most famous hikes in California is the Half Dome  in Yosemite National Park. This trail is adventurous and strenuous; make sure to leave before sunrise to complete the 16-mile round trip. Keep in mind this is a seriously competitive permit-only hike, so visit the site I linked for more information.

Can’t get a permit? Go to the visitor’s center and grab a trail map. There are so many epic hikes with equally impressive views and far fewer people. You can hike to the top of El Capitan, for example, and view Half Dome across the valley.

Desolation Wilderness: There are tons of trails in this National Forest just west of Lake Tahoe. I recommend an overnight hike to Dick’s Lake or Aloha Lake. I wrote about Dick’s Lake here .

Lake Tahoe Rim Trail: There are tons of beautiful day hikes around Lake Tahoe, but if you want to go all out, hike part or all of the Lake Tahoe Rim Trail.

Point Reyes, Many Hiking Options: Not as well known internationally, but quite famous in Northern California, this national reserve has around 150 miles of coastal and forest hiking trails! Visit Bear Valley Visitor Center to get more info. I recommend Tomales Bay. Alamere Falls is popular for its waterfall that ends at the ocean.

Mount Whitney:  Another permit-only, highly competitive day hike in California. This is a non-technical summit to the highest mountain in the continental US at 14,496 ft.

Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: This entire area in very northern California is absolutely beautiful. Fern Canyon is a green, pristine canyon in the coastal range of the Redwoods. I just hiked this easy hike this year. Definitely, a must-do if you are visiting this part of California.

Scuba Diving in California

California is probably better known for its surfing, as the water is cold and not all that visible. That said, you can do some pretty unique and epic scuba diving in California!

Catalina Island is probably the most popular place to dive. The waters are much clearer here, and you have access to shipwrecks and reefs.

La Jolla Cove is another popular dive site in California, where it is common to dive with the California Sea Lion.

Surfing in California

Nothing epitomizes California more than its surf culture. This means you have plenty of choices all up and down the coast, many waves of which are accessible. The major drawbacks of surfing in California are the crowds and water temps, which are cold year round, but especially in winter.

If you’re into big wave surfing then it doesn’t get better than Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay .  Maverick’s  in Half Moon Bay is world famous for its dangerous and massive winter swells.

Winter also brings forth excellent conditions in Southern California. Huntington Beach, Malibu, Steamer Lane, and Rincon are all famous spots for surfing. Huntington Beach is home of the US Open for surfing in August.

Other surf towns include Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Bodega Bay, Oceans Beach in SF, and so much more.

Brief History of California

California has been inhabited for thousands of years by Native Americans, namely the Chumash, Mohave, Yuma, Pomo, and Maidu. Separated by the mountain ranges and deserts, these different tribes had different languages and cultures.

Like everywhere else in the country, everything changed when Europeans came to colonize. California wasn’t colonized nearly as fast as the east since it was so far away from Europe. Despite being explored in the 1500s, it wasn’t until 1769 when the Spanish began to build the California missions.

Of course, most Native Americans were killed or converted to Catholicism during colonization…

There are 21 missions along the coast that you can still visit today. When Mexico gained independence from Spain, California became a province in Mexico, but in the 1840s – when many settlers were moving to California – the area rebelled against Mexico rule and became an independent country called the Bear Flag Republic.

Within that same year, the US and Mexico went to war, and California became a territory in the US in 1848.

Around this time – 1848 specifically – gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill in California and so began the gold rush. In the next decade, over 300,000 people moved to California changing the state forever.

The First Transcontinental Railroad made traveling west easier, and California continued to be settled in droves. In the late 1800s, California really made its mark as the state of agriculture, specifically in the Central Valley.

In the 1900s, Hollywood, a small town outside LA, became the main location for filming due to its proximity to the beach, mountains, and desert and year-round sunny weather. You probably don’t need me to tell you what Hollywood has become since!

Being a Responsible Backpacker in California

There is no shortage of opportunities to party in California, and you probably don’t need me to tell you to be responsible and safe, but well, be responsible and safe.

Respect monuments, historical sites, and people. Follow the “leave no trace” principles and always pick up your trash and any litter you find on the trails. California’s nature is pristine, so let’s keep it that way!

Try to  limit or eliminate your consumption of plastic and single-use containers  as much as possible.

Learn how to reduce your plastic footprint while traveling here .

Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Ana Pereira

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OMG so much information. We are planning a 3-4 week vacation self-drive budget vacation. This is a wonderful help to me. Though had to laugh at the size of California. Being from Australia ??. You have got me super excited. I wasn’t all that keen, my hubby wants to go. So 2020 – California here we come.

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5 Best Backpacking Trips & Trails in Big Sur, California

Posted by Emily Pennington February 08, 2020 Updated July 13, 2023

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience and expertise, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Big Sur is a hiker’s paradise. With panoramic coastal views, backcountry camps aplenty, and towering groves of those famous redwoods, it’s hard not to fall in love with this slice of central California.

Unlike California’s national parks or the Eastern Sierra Mountains, Big Sur does not yet require permits for intrepid hikers looking to spend a night among the big trees and stunning ocean vistas. This makes it an excellent option for last minute backpacking trips coming from Los Angeles, Sacramento, or San Francisco. It’s also a great locale for winter and spring months when the Sierras are still socked in with snow.

California’s famous Highway 1 cuts right through the heart of the woodsy little town, cruising right past notable spots like Nepenthe , Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , and the Piedras Blancas elephant seals . With only one main road into and out of Big Sur retains its rugged remoteness.

Far away from large cities and bordered by mountains and sea, there’s no cell service for about a mile radius in any direction. Backpackers here will want to purchase or print out paper trail maps or download a topographic map onto a GPS app before hopping into the car.

Every season brings a little something different to Big Sur, making the optimal tourist season year-round. In spring, Indian paintbrush and California poppies burst with color along every hillside. In summer, sunny skies and warm temperatures crowd the trails. In fall, you’ll see moderate temps and seasonal color changes, and winter brings gray whale watching, more rain, and fewer crowds.

For those planning to camp overnight in the Ventana Wilderness / Big Sur backcountry, California fire permits are required if you intend on lighting a fire or even using a camp stove. They are free to obtain and can be found here .

Fires are only allowed in pre-existing fire rings, and fires must be completely extinguished with water and a shovel before you go to bed. Check the Big Sur Parks and Recreation website to see if any seasonal fire restrictions are in place before you venture out.

Visitors to Big Sur will want to note a few more things – ticks and poison oak are common sights in the backcountry. Day hikers and overnight travelers will want to come prepared with a hardy bug spray and long hiking pants.

Related Read:   How To Go Backpacking Solo & Start Enjoying Solitude Like No Other

Big Sur’s Best Backpacking Trails

From creek-fed oak groves, to fern-covered redwood forests, to enchanting ocean viewpoints, there’s something for everyone in the Big Sur backcountry. Escape the crowds and plan an overnighter to really experience the magic of this far-flung locale. Here’s a list of our favorite backpacking trips in the area, with a few hidden gems thrown in for good measure.

For tips on day hiking or car camping in Big Sur, check out our other two articles:

10 Best Hikes in Big Sur, CA

10 Best Camping Spots in Big Sur, CA

1. Kirk Creek Trail to Vicente Flat Camp

Why you should go: Steep hike to epic mountaintop views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Distance: 10.1 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 3,308 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging

The Kirk Creek Trail offers a taste of the best that Big Sur has to offer, all crammed into an epic overnight trip that’s only 5 miles each way.  This makes it a great hike for beginner-intermediate backpackers who just want to escape for the weekend.

The trail starts off across the street from the Kirk Creek Campground, a car camper’s paradise (if you can snag one of the always booked reservations!). Park off the road and you’ll see a large, wooden sign boasting the mileage up to Vicente Flat Camp and beyond.

“Vicente Camp is in a beautiful redwood grove and both Cone Peak and Vicente Flat are amazing hikes, depending on whether you want to see the ocean or the trees,” said backpacker Sarah Peloquin on AllTrails .

When it’s sunny outside, the beginning of the trail is very hot and exposed, a 3-mile uphill climb with little shade. But the views are to die for. The aquamarine waters of the Pacific Ocean can be heard rumbling below as trekkers ascend a series of dusty switchbacks.

If your legs have had enough after the 3,000-foot climb in just three miles, you could pitch your tent at Espinosa Camp around mile 3.25, but we recommend going the distance and passing the lovely green hillsides and lush meadows on the way to Vicente Flat Camp proper. There are more sites here, and the water is much more reliable.

Peakbaggers camped at Vicente might want to add on an extra day and an extra 5-mile round trip hike to tackle the trail to Cone Peak, the highest in the region.

When you’re ready to go home, simply turn around and head back the way you came. This is one of the most magical hikes in Big Sur and is truly a gem that only California could boast.

Related Read:   6 Phenomenal Backpacking Trails in Joshua Tree National Park

2. Salmon Creek Trail to Estrella Camp

Why you should go:  Short trek through coastal chaparral to creekside campsites.

• Distance: 6.5 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 2,077 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Salmon Creek Trail veers past a magical double waterfall before ascending to a lush meadow in the Santa Lucia Mountains with plenty of space to sprawl out.

Located in the more southern Silver Peak Wilderness, this quick overnight trek through Big Sur’s wooded mountains is awesome for those driving in from Los Angeles or San Diego who want a shorter commute. Park just off Highway 1 at Salmon Creek, where a brown metal sign states the mileages to nearby camps (Spruce Camp – 2 miles, Estrella Camp – 3.25 miles).

“The whole terrain was amazing to me. The trail is often cut into a high ledge on a steep mountainside, but the plant life is so abundant you sometimes don’t notice. Beautiful!” said visitor Scott Hadley on AllTrails .

Take the spur trail to check out the enchanting Salmon Creek Falls, then get ready for a work out. Hike up through coastal chaparral and grasslands before the trail intersects with Spruce Creek, which can swell up to four feet after a big rain. The first campground (Spruce Camp) is located here.

Veer left and continue the slow and steady climb up to Estrella Camp, the real gem of the trek. In hot summer months, there are ample opportunities to cool off by hopping into the creek near the campsites. Bring a hammock, chill out, and enjoy the ultra dark night skies.

When you’ve had enough, you could continue onward to Three Peaks Camp for a longer journey, or simply turn around and head back to your car the way you came in. Enjoy those sweeping ocean views on the way down – you’ve earned them.

Related Read:   11 Stunning Hikes Near Santa Cruz, California

3. Buckeye Trail to Alder Creek Camp

Why you should go:  See the southernmost grove of coastal redwoods and camp among laurels, ponderosa pines, and sycamore trees.

• Distance: 17 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet

Park at the historic Salmon Creek Ranger Station (now closed) in the Silver Peak Wilderness and lace up your hiking boots — you’re about to climb. As you ascend the Buckeye Trail , those magnificent coastal views that Big Sur is famous for will soon come into view, and you’ll feel well rewarded for your efforts.

Pass through the Southern Redwood Botanical Area, then continue on to Buckeye Flat and Upper Cruikshank Camp. These are both great options for camping if you’re looking for a shorter trek or would like to break the distance into a two-night backpacking excursion.

Be careful crossing Villa Creek, then swing through the Alder Creek Botanical Area, a less-traveled but well worth it hidden gem. Enjoy crowd-free spectacular views along the verdant, grassy hillsides before calling it a night in the woodsy wonderland of Alder Creek Camp.

Related Read:   The 14 Best Hikes at Point Reyes National Seashore

4. Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs

Why you should go:  Glides up and down a series of mountain ridges then pass through redwood forests on the way to Sykes Hot Springs.

• Distance: 20 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 3,810 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

The Pine Ridge Trail is, by far, the most well-known and well-worn of the Big Sur backpacking trails.

Because of its incredibly crowded nature, we recommend doing this trail in the off season or on a weekday, when you’re more likely to have the pools to yourself. Start off by parking at the Big Sur Ranger Station, then traverse a relatively easy 1-mile stroll through forest and grasslands before the first big climb.

The first climb is also the largest of the journey, a sunny 1,200-foot jaunt up the side of a huge canyon that was eroded by the churning Big Sur River. Look east, and you’ll see the towering peaks of the Ventana Wilderness. Look west, and you see the deep blue surf of the Pacific Ocean.

As you continue to hike over rolling hills towards the hot springs, you’ll pass a series of less crowded backcountry camps that are great if you’re looking for a more mellow vibe. Ventana Camp is 5 miles in, while Barlow Flat Camp (the largest on the trail) is a bit closer to the springs, 6 miles in.

“The hot springs felt great and were truly an amazing experience. The river is beautiful and the camp is very comfortable,” said visitor Priscilla Lee on AllTrails .

The trail involves crossing the Big Sur River twice, so check conditions before you go and bring water shoes. Once you’ve arrived at Sykes Camp, look for a wide, flat area near the river to pitch a tent. The hot springs are about a half-mile walk from the camping area. Just follow the river downstream (and hunt for salamanders along the way!) until you see a series of three small stone pools.

The pools can only comfortably fit 8-10 people at a time, so go early if you’d like some solitude. If your legs are ready for more hiking, continue on another 3 miles to Redwood Camp, a gorgeous, secluded site in a huge grove of old growth redwood trees, far from the weekend warrior madness at Sykes.

When it’s time to go, just head back the trail the way you came and consider making a donation to the parks department at the ranger station for all the hard work they do.

Related Read:   South Bay Hikes: 14 Hikes Near San Jose With Stunning Views

5. Stone Ridge Trail to Goat Camp

Why you should go:  Steep, lesser-known path in the heart of Big Sur serving up some of the best ocean views in town.

• Distance: 22 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet

Park in the wide shoulder off Highway 1, between Lucia and Limekiln, then cross the street and look for the sign marking the Twitchwell Flat Use Trail. Head through the small gate and onto the trail itself. Alternately, hikers could tack on a visit to Goat Camp by adding a 5-mile round trip hike onto the Kirk Creek Trail.

“We decided to take Stone Ridge to Goat Camp which was 2.5 miles further up the trail past the intersection. Absolutely the most stunning views from the intersection!” said backpacker Scott Campbell on AllTrails .

This trail starts climbing almost immediately and doesn’t quit until you reach the flat, grassy campsites at Goat Camp. Follow the trail up a steep, 2,000-foot climb through grasslands, forests, and wood sorrel, being careful not to step into poison oak along the way.

Eventually, you’ll come to a four-way intersection of trails. Veer left onto the Stone Ridge Trail and climb another 400 feet until you reach the top of the ridge where Goat Camp is located. Pitch your tent, grill up some dinner, and gaze out at the wide-open Pacific as the sun turns nearby clouds into neon shades of marigold and lavender.

From here, hikers could connect to other campgrounds along the Stone Ridge Trail, or simply head downhill and back to the car.

If you’re not too exhausted from the hike, there’s a nearby and worthy detour to be found in Limekiln State Park . A series of short, easy trails take hikers up and into the mossy redwood forests and around a series of historic limekilns, remnants from the Big Sur of yesteryear.

Related read: 7 Dreamy Glamping Spots in Big Sur, California

More Backpacking Ideas

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8 Gorgeous Backpacking Trails in the Wind River Range

10 Killer Backpacking Trails in Yosemite National Park

8 Epic Backpacking Trips in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

5 Spectacular Backpacking Destinations in Colorado

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Seen in: Backpacking , Backpacking in California , California

Posted by Emily Pennington

Emily Pennington is a national parks and travel columnist at Outside. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, Adventure Journal, REI Journal, and Backpacker, to name a few.

Her memoir about visiting every national park, Feral , launched in February 2023, and now that it’s finished, you can find her backpacking in the Sierras and drooling over Colorado real estate.

10 Epic Hikes in Big Sur, California

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7 California Backpacking Trips You Need To Try In 2024

It has always been my dream to go on California backpacking trips. After all, California is one of the best places for a beginner backpacker to get started!

California’s landscape is so diverse with picturesque views that are simply best enjoyed on a backpacking trip. The mild weather throughout the year also helps and winter backpacking is indeed possible.

There are so many options for backpacking trips in California once you start looking out for them. In fact, I’m also using this list to get started with my adventures. I’ll make sure to add links to future articles and tips after I’ve gone on these trips so that you can get a glimpse of what to prepare for.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a beginner to the trail, join me as we explore these must-try backpacking trips in California.

7. Big Pine Lakes

What are the best california backpacking trips.

I’m so excited to share my list of California backpacking trips that I’m personally making plans for! I’ve also added some notes on the suggested duration, best time to go, and difficulty level. That way, you can gauge which trips are right for you.

Going hiking or camping soon? Check out some of my tips and gear recommendations:

Cold weather camping gear | Camping starter kit | Affordable hiking backpacks | Weekend camping trip planning + packing list | First-timer tent camping tips | Hiking boots for women | Rooftop tents for car camping

1. Lost Coast Trail

The Lost Coast Trail is on the bucket list of many backpackers, and rightly so! This trail is located north of San Francisco in Humboldt County and features rugged coastlines through King Range . It is incredibly scenic and worth the 3-4 days. Since there are no roads cutting through this stretch of coast, the best way to experience it is by backpacking through it.

What you need to know

• One of the important things to plan is the tide timing you will be walking on the beach as some parts of it will be submerged during high tide.
• As it is a point to point trail, you might need to hitch a ride/ book a shuttle in advance /bring 2 cars and leave one at each end. Do note that the driving distance is about 2 hours.
• A popular way to start is from Mattole River Beach, hiking southwards to end at Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove.
• Permits are required to camp in King Range Wilderness. They are available 3 months in advance at 7am, and 2 walk-up permits are available daily. In addition, only 30-60 permits are available each day so it never gets crowded.
• This not a beginner-friendly backpacking trip because of physically gruelling terrain and the amount planning involved regarding tide timings. Expect 1 mile per hour pace while crossing rocky and sandy coastlines.

Duration: 3-4 days (25 miles)

Best time to go: May to September (open year-round)

Difficulty: Strenuous

2. Point Reyes Beachside Camping

Located slightly north of San Francisco, Point Reyes offers a unique coastal backpacking trip. Wildcat and Coast Camp are the popular beachside campgrounds that you’ll never forget. My first time camping in Point Reyes was during a 10-day California road trip . It was simply amazing to be able to walk out to the beach just a few minutes away to watch the sunset.

Coast Camp is fairly easy to get to, and serves as a great introduction to backpacking. Hiking in to the campsite takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, and there are several routes you can take to get there. I would really like to check out Wildcat Campground as well, since it’s an excellent base for hiking to Alamere Falls .

You could even spend a few days backpacking in Point Reyes and trying out several campgrounds. The nice thing is that you’re never too far from your car if you need to bail.

• Make reservations for the campgrounds in Point Reyes in advance as they are very popular.
• When planning a hike across the beach, make sure to check tide timings .
• Stay alert for sneaky wildlife that try to get to your food, such as raccoons.
• For beginners, I suggest camping at Coast Camp as the hike is shorter than the one required to get to Wildcat Camp. Coast Camp is also closer to other attractions like Point Reyes Lighthouse and Elephant Seal Overlook.

Duration: 2-3 days

Best time to go: April to June (open year-round)

Difficulty: Moderate

3. Trans-Catalina Island Trail

Catalina Island is so stunning that it even featured as a default Macbook wallpaper. Did you know that you can hike across this whole island via the Trans-Catalina Island Trail ? It is a unique backpacking adventure in Southern California with amazing ocean views. You can even share a campsite with an American Bison !

My first ever camping trip was actually in Catalina Island, and we camped at Little Harbor . It was such an amazing experience hiking a short portion of the Trans-Catalina Island Trail from Two Harbors to Little Harbor . The view of the campsite from our hike was amazing and I told myself that I’ll have to go back for the whole island someday.

The Trans-Catalina Island Trail is relatively beginner friendly as there are options for you to cut the trip short, such as by heading straight to Two Harbors . In addition, you may be able to rent equipment to some sites. For example, we rented a portable stove and bought firewood to be delivered to our campsite while we were at Little Harbor .

• You will need to take a ferry to Catalina Island from the mainland.
• Campsite reservations are required. Despite the 2-night minimum requirement in summer for certain sites, it can be waived for those on the Trans-Catalina Island Trail. You’ll need to call Two Harbors Visitor Services at 310 510 4205.
• A suggested route is to start at Avalon , camp at Black Jack , continue to Little Harbor campground, then Two Harbors campground , then finally Parson’s Landing and back to Two Harbors . This would be a total of 5 days.

Duration: 4-5 days (38.5 miles)

Best time to go: November to March (open year-round)

4. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park needs no introduction. If you’ve ever been to Yosemite Valley , you’ll know that this is one of the most beautiful places in California. Beyond the granite peaks lie lush meadows, alpine lakes and iconic trails like the John Muir Trail . Yosemite is a backpacking paradise because 95% of it is actually wilderness, and what you see in the valley is just a small part of the landscape.

Popular backpacking trails here include:

• Hike to Half Dome with an overnight stay at Little Yosemite
• Cathedral Lake
• High Sierras Camp Loop
• Vogelsang and Lyell Canyon Loop (Entry point: Rafferty Creek -> Vogelsang)
• Young Lakes via Dog Lake
• You definitely need to bring a bear canister and make sure you know all the best practices for keeping wildlife at a distance.
• Wilderness permits are required for backcountry camping.
• Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road which lead to higher elevation areas are typically open during the warmer seasons from May to November.

Duration: Varies

Best time to go: July to October (open year-round)

Difficulty: Varies

5. Lake Tahoe Desolation Wilderness

Discover the pristine beauty of Desolation Wilderness near Lake Tahoe . The trails, often less traveled, lead to alpine lakes and breathtaking vistas. For example, you can spend 3 days and 2 nights camping by Tamarack Lake (zone 41) and Lake Aloha (zone 33).

As these lakes are along the Pacific Crest Trail , you’ll get a small glimpse of what it could be like to go thru-hiking. You could even go soak in these hot springs after your backpacking adventure.

• Permits are required for the zone you intend to camp, and these are available 6 months in advance. There are quotas up till October so make sure to reserve your permits early, especially for popular zones.
• Make sure to bring crampons/microspikes if you’re hiking in early summer as you might have to hike on compact snow which can be slippery.

Duration: 2-5 days

Best time to go: June to October (open year-round)

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

6. Sykes Hot Springs

For a unique backpacking trip, venture to Sykes Hot Springs in the Ventana Wilderness of Big Sur . Sykes Hot Springs is a natural hot spring along the central California coast and requires some effort to get to. The trail you’ll be following is the Pine Ridge Trail which starts from Big Sur Station.

As a reward, you’ll get to check out 3 different pools of hot springs. It does get popular so going on weekdays or early morning is a great idea for getting the hot spring to yourself for a short time. You can also look out for wildlife including salamanders and banana slugs .

• Most people bring a swimsuit to use the hot spring.
• Bring cash t o pay for parking at Big Sur Station.
• There are limited amenities along Big Sur, so do prepare anything you need beforehand (such as food from Monterey).
• You need a permit to use a camp stove.
• There are several river crossings required , so be mindful if you are hiking after a period of rain.
• The campsites are on first-come first-served basis with designated occupancy limits. Sykes campground is the most popular as it is close to the hot springs. However if it is full you will need to walk to another campground.

Duration: 2 days (20 miles round trip)

Best time to go: May to October (open year-round)

The Eastern Sierras are stunning in so many ways. From mountain peaks to alpine lakes, there’s no shortage of backpacking trips in this part of California. One of the items on my California bucket list is definitely to backpack through a few of the lakes in Big Pines.

It’s also possible to do a day hike to the first lake, but why not make it a multi-day trip to explore more of the backcountry. There are actually 7 gorgeous lakes in this region, and it would be really cool to see the Palisades Glacier as well. The second lake famously features a view of Temple Crag, which is a pointy rock structure that makes this place look so unique.

• Permits are required for the trail, but can be competitive as this is a popular hike. Specifically, this is called Big Pine Creek North Fork . The quota is 25 per day from May to November, of which 15 are available 6 months in advance. The rest are available 2 weeks before.
• The trailhead sits above 7,000 ft elevation, so you might feel short of breath.

Duration: 2-3 days (13 miles round trip for 2 lakes)

Best time to go: July to September

Additional Tips on California Backpacking Trips

• Before you go, make sure to learn the Leave No Trace principles . You’ll want to know this as it applies to human waste too!
• It also helps if you have the right camping gear , especially if you’re going somewhere cold or rainy.
• Although backpacking can be a little daunting, it helps if you go on some tent camping trips in developed campgrounds as a start . After that, try backpacking trips that only involve a short hike to build confidence.
• Layering is key so that you can remove layers of clothing before you start sweating excessively through them. Sweat tends to make you feel cold once you stop moving, and moisture wicking base layers will help to manage this. Consider getting merino wool base layers as they are great for warmth even when damp from sweat.
• Pack a set of dry and clean clothes to sleep in.

More of my travel guides to help you plan your classic California experience

Lassen Volcanic | Lake Tahoe | Yosemite | Point Reyes | San Francisco Day Trips | Half Moon Bay | Pescadero | Big Sur | Santa Cruz | Monterey | Carmel-by-the-Sea | Catalina Island | Death Valley | 10-day California Road Trip | Rental car tips | Bay Area Must-Visit Places

Not sure where to start? I have some ideas for your California trip!

Best stops along California’s coast | Must-go for outdoor lovers | Best winter camping | Bucket-list backpacking trips | Best SF Bay Area hikes | Best California Glamping | Best beach towns

Janice, a California-based travel writer from Singapore, discovered her love for hiking and camping during her studies in Los Angeles. Through her blog, she now shares detailed itineraries for adventures in California, Asia, and beyond. She also talks about gear recommendations and tips for beginners, hoping to inspire them to explore the great outdoors with confidence.

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The 5 Best California Backpacking Destinations for Summer

From undulating mountains, to coastal expanses, to verdant forests, here are some of the top spots for backpacking in California.

June 01, 2023

If you’re a backpacking aficionado, you likely already know that summer is backpacking season, and you’re ready to hit the trails on your next wilderness adventure. Since the Golden State is home to numerous outdoor destinations full of varied landscapes, diverse wildlife, and enviable climates, it’s a prime place for backpackers. Whether you’re yearning to traverse undulating mountains, meander through verdant forests, or hike along the epic coastline, California has the backpacking trail for you. 

The Best Summer Backpacking Destinations

The Golden State is unlike anywhere else. From arid deserts to foggy oceansides, there are no limits to what you can conquer here. Indeed, there are endless options for backpacking in California, but there are a few fan-favorite standouts. 

While some of these locales require permits and are only open seasonally, they are well worth the extra planning. So make reservations, secure your permits, dust off your trusty hiking boots, secure a waterproof backpack , and start packing—this is going to be a summer to remember.

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1. Yosemite National Park

Pros: Gorgeous scenery, incredible vistas, hundreds of species of flora and fauna, affordable park fees, natural waterfalls, and rock climbing Cons: Crowded, rocky roads; must make reservations well in advance; strict camping  rules  Permit required: Yes Preferable seasons: Spring, summer, fall Day-use or parking pass required: Yes Dogs allowed: Yes  

The iconic Yosemite National Park offers several options for backpackers of all skill levels. Whether you choose to explore the spectacular, 8.6-mile Cathedral Lakes Trail or the famed, 14.8-mile Half Dome Hike , you can’t go wrong with backpacking here. 

In addition to the well-known trails, Yosemite National Park is jam-packed with natural wonders. Waterfalls, wildflower-dotted meadows, sequoia groves, and pools of water greet you around every turn, as the fresh scent of nature solidifies the scenes in your mind. 

Yosemite is an ideal destination for those who enjoy the company of others; it is one of the most visited parks in America, so don’t expect to escape the crowds here. But if you’re willing to share the famous views with people from all over the globe, you’ll be rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime.   

2. Trinity Alps Wilderness 

Pros: Beautiful mountain views, ample water sources, swimming, vibrant wildflowers Cons: Seasonal bugs, rattlesnakes, overgrown trails Permit required: Yes Preferable seasons: Summer, fall Day-use or parking pass required: No Dogs allowed: Yes

Situated inland from Eureka , near the northern edge of California , the Trinity Alps Wilderness is home to 47 scenic trails and hundreds of miles of lush land. This densely forested region lies between the scenic Coastal Range and the stunning Shasta Cascade , making it a great road trip destination from Chico or Redding—plus a perfect place to camp, fish, and hike. 

Since the Trinity Alps Wilderness is off-the-beaten-path, it is less frequented by visitors, so it is an ideal spot for experienced backpackers seeking solitude. In addition to the lack of crowds, hiking enthusiasts will enjoy more strenuous routes, so adventurers who travel here should come expecting a challenge. But the burning sensations in your legs will certainly be worth it once you witness all the breathtaking scenery the Trinity Alps Wilderness has to offer.

3. Sequoia National Park

Pros: Giant sequoia groves, access to the High Sierra Cons: Trails closed in winter, park entrance fee Permit required: Only for certain areas Preferable seasons: Spring, summer, fall Day-use or parking pass required: No Dogs allowed: Yes

Complete with towering trees and miles of scenic pathways, Sequoia National Park is a recreational wonderland for backpackers wanting to explore a world unlike any other. As the name implies, Sequoia National Park is most famous for its old-growth sequoia trees, though it also offers access to popular trails such as the John Muir Trail and High Sierra Trail, along with vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and access to Mount Whitney—which boasts one of the highest peaks in America. 

As one of the few national parks with a largely unchanged landscape, Sequoia National Park gives you the opportunity to see a slice of history firsthand. So, whether you’re prepared with a daypack for a short excursion along Moro Rock Trail or you’re setting out with a camping backpack for a multi-day wilderness journey, Sequoia National Park makes for an unforgettable experience.

4. Crystal Cove State Park

Pros: Epic sunsets, beautiful beach views, ample camping spots, not overly crowded Cons: No coal or wood fires allowed, parking fee, rattlesnakes  Permit required: No Preferable seasons: Winter, spring, summer, fall Day-use or parking pass required: Yes Dogs allowed: No

Nestled in Orange County , Crystal Cove State Park offers an idyllic setting for backpackers seeking adventure amidst nature's beauty. With its combination of lush, wooded areas, undulating hills, and pristine beaches caressed by the surf, the park is a coveted spot for those in search of scenic ocean views and tranquil paths.

It caters to all kinds of visitors, whether you're planning a short jaunt or a longer journey of discovery. The abundance of trails here means you can venture away from the hustle and bustle, finding your own serene spot to enjoy breathtaking sunset views in solitude.

5. The Lost Coast

Pros: Stunning Pacific views, few other hikers, bragging rights Cons: Incredibly difficult terrain best saved for seasoned hikers, rattlesnakes, poison oak Permit required: Yes Preferable seasons: Summer, fall Day-use or parking pass required: No, but you will need to purchase a shuttle pass to travel from Black Sands Beach if you plan to hike the whole trail  Dogs allowed: Yes, but not recommended

Grab your sturdiest hiking backpack, tidal chart, compass, and boots—this adventure is one for the books. The rugged Lost Coast is one of the top remote destinations in the Golden State and a true explorer’s paradise. With high tides, rugged terrain, and a silence that is often only broken by the sounds of waves meeting the shore, this backpacking region is best suited for very experienced hikers.  

Travel over rocks, sand, and forested pathways while battling harsh and unpredictable weather conditions to discover some of the least seen coastal regions in California. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance, and grab a crew of your most adventurous friends to stay safe along this intriguing trail. 

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The Top 20 Backpacking Trips Near San Francisco

There's true wilderness to be found. Go find it.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Ah, San Francisco. What a beautiful place to live, right? The Bay Area is the perfect combination of thriving city life and immediate access to world-class outdoor adventures. Of course, the whole thriving urban thing means that once in awhile, you need to escape the hustle and bustle, get the heck out of town and explore the backcountry. Lucky for San Franciscans, visitors, or nearby locals, there is an endless supply of epic trails to explore and true wilderness to be found. Whether you’re looking to knock out a quick strike mission to one of the nearby state parks or go for a long weekend escape to the Sierra, you’ll find something that does the trick for you on this list.

1. Climb Cone Peak in Big Sur Area (Sea to Sky Route)

Photo: Josiah Roe

Distance : 19.72 miles

Elevation Gain : 7,484 ft

Route Type : Out-and-Back

You will be well rewarded on this strenuous coastal mountain hike with stunning views of wildflowers, a waterfall, and panoramic views overlooking the sea. While you are staying at one of the campgrounds overnight, appreciate stunning sunsets and incredible star gazing opportunities.

2. Backcountry Camp at Big Basin Sunset Trail Camp

Photo: Christian Arballo

Distance : 9.46 miles

Elevation Gain : 2,146 ft

This hike will take you along the famous Skyline-to-the-Sea trail through the lush, forested canopy of the redwood forests. Appreciate the sounds of bubbling creeks along your way and enjoy the stunning views of Big Basin’s big three waterfalls before arriving at the backcountry campsite.

3. Backpack to Pt. Reyes Coast Campground

Distance : 4.02 miles

Elevation Gain : 633 ft

Great for a beginning backpacking trip, this trail will allow you to camp just above the coast of Pt. Reyes and head down to the beach and tide pools below. Take in stunning sunset views and walk along the beach for some well-deserved solitude and relaxation out in nature.

4. Backpack the Glen Camp Loop via the Palomarin Trailhead

Photo: Jeff Driscoll

Distance : 15.72 miles

Elevation Gain : 3,091 ft

Route Type : loop

This loop will take you on a journey along stunning coastal views and into lush forests. As you hike you will be able to take in the wonders of diverse vegetation, coastal lakes, and cascading waterfalls.

5. Backpack the Lost Coast: Mattole to Black Sands Beach

Photo: Whitney Whitehouse

Distance : 25.05 miles

Elevation Gain : 653 ft

Route Type : Point-to-Point

Enjoy 25 miles of panoramic coastline views along this backpacking trip. Appreciate trekking through varied landscapes and finding diverse wildlife. Search the ocean for whales and sea lions and look out to the wildflower-dotted fields and sandy trails for lizards and turkeys.

6. Camp on Angel Island

Photo: Brian Heifferon

Distance : 6.2 miles

Elevation Gain : 495 ft

Route Type : Loop

Enjoy circling the entire island in this relatively easy perimeter coastal hike. During your trip, look across the water to the city standing out in the horizon, enjoy taking in the Golden Gate Bridge from a new perspective, take a dip in the ocean, and be amazed by the brilliant sunset on the ocean.

7. Backpack to Point Reyes Wildcat Campground

Photo: Miranda Leconte

Distance : 11.19 miles

Elevation Gain : 1,926 ft

Hike along this popular trail and take in stunning coastline views, hidden coastal lakes, eucalyptus groves, and densely packed bright green fauna. After a long day of hiking enjoy making camp in an open meadow on a bluff overlooking the sea.

8. Camp at Glacier Point   (winter only)

Photo: Sarah Vaughn

Distance : 9.17 miles

Elevation Gain : 3,491 ft

Enjoy the snow-covered landscape and take in stunning views of the famed El-Capitan, Sentinel Rocks, and Yosemite Falls this hike has to offer. At to top appreciate panoramic views where you can witness the beauty of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome. After a long day of hiking, enjoy some solitude in nature at a campground by yourself.

9. Backpack Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop

Distance : 16.18 miles

Elevation Gain : 2,818 ft

Take in a diverse array of landscapes that includes meadows, coastal mountains, and forests. Enjoy listening to the soft rustling of leaves and the trickling of the creek as you walk through the forest. Listen to the crashing of waves on the shore and the sand crunching beneath your feet as this hike winds you along the coast. Appreciate viewing the coast at both sea level and at the highest point in the park on this trip.

10. Backpack to Clouds Rest from Glacier Point

Photo: Austin Trigg

Distance : 23.85 miles

Elevation Gain : 6, 942 ft

This hike will take you to the highest point in the valley where you will be met by panoramic views of the valley, Nevada Falls, and the high country. Along the way enjoy the beauty of Tenya Lake, the wonders of the forest, and give yourself a pat on the back after a grueling and steep climb up the Half Dome junction.

11. Backpack Sam McDonald Park

Photo: Ashley Chang

Distance : 12.19 miles

Elevation Gain : 2,192 ft

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by backpacking in this redwood forest park. Appreciate creeks and the sunlight glinting through towering forest canopy views throughout this hike.

12. Backpack te Redfern Pond

Distance : 7 miles

Elevation Gain : 1,263 ft

This area is only a short distance away from the Bay Area and boasts views of backcountry lakes and grassy, sloping hills. Enjoy wildlife sightings in the meadows and appreciate the panoramic views from your campsite.

13. Backpack to Dewey Point from Tunnel View

Photo: Jonathan Reed

Distance : 9.25 miles

Elevation Gain : 2,979 ft

This backcountry trip allows you the opportunity to camp on the bare rock of Yosemite’s South Rim and appreciate gorgeous views of the Sequoia Forest at sunset. Along your way, look out across the valley towards El Capitan and Cathedral Rocks, walk across streams, and trek through impressive forest scenery.

14. Backpack to Pat Springs

Photo: Max Berger

Distance : 13.18 miles

Elevation Gain : 3,645 ft

Head into the Ventana Wilderness for a remote experience where you will be surrounded by gorgeous vistas, fields, trees, and beautiful summit outlooks. Camp on the ridge and enjoy the beautiful scenery overlooking Big Sur and the San Lucia Mountains.

15. Backpack the Pine Ridge in Big Sur, North Ridge Coast Loop

Photo: Chris DeAntonio

Distance : 33.45 miles

Elevation Gain : 11,388 ft

Head into Los Padres National Forest where you will get the chance to hike through diverse terrain from the redwood forest to the coastal ridgeline. Appreciate the bright, lush greens of the forest, the brilliant views of the ocean stretching into the horizon, and impressive waterfalls.

16. Backpack to the Ventana Wilderness’ Sykes Hot Springs

Photo: Blake Maitoza

Distance : 18.96 miles

Elevation Gain : 7,339 ft

The rushing Big Sur River, dense forests, and views of the valley below will greet you as you begin this moderately challenging hike. At the end of the day, reward yourself for a hard day’s work trekking through the trees by visiting the three hot springs near your campsite.

17. Winter Backpack to Sentinel Dome in Yosemite

Photo: Kyle Frost

Distance : 19.23 miles

Elevation Gain : 860 ft

Appreciate the beauty and adventure Yosemite National Park has to offer with this winter backpacking trip. Enjoy the trek up to your campsite by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Your campsite will offer stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset, of the snow-topped mountain peaks stretching out in front of you.

18. Backpack to Bear Lake Emigrant Wilderness

Photo: Greg Balkin

Distance : 8.34 miles

Elevation Gain : 705 ft

This hike offers a small creek and waterfall, a rocky trail, and stunning views of the surrounding forested peaks. When you arrive at your campsite, go for a cold dip in the water or watch the sunset over the lake.

19. Backpack to Little Yosemite Valley Campsite and Hike Half Dome

Photo: Eddie Jo

Distance : 13.88 miles

Elevation Gain : 4,800 ft

As you hike to the valley, enjoy the beautiful scenery and two waterfalls along your way. As you head towards the half dome, experience the fun adventure of gripping cables and heading straight up the side of it towards the summit. At your campsite, appreciate the views of Yosemite around you and enjoy the babbling of the river near you.

20. Backpack to Goat Camp in Big Sur

Photo: Andrew Conway

Distance : 9.2 miles

Elevation Gain : 3,852 ft

If you are looking for a difficult, less trafficked trail, this is the hike for you. Along the way take in the spectacular views. Get lost in the wonders of mother nature as you hike through ivy-covered forest floors, look out at the ocean from the coastal ridgeline, and trek across prairie grass fields.

Cover photo:  Miranda Leconte

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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California’s Coast 5 Best Backpacking Trips

The California coast is my refuge in winter when it’s too cold to hike in the Sierra Nevada. Luckily, the coast has stayed relatively undeveloped, and it offers some of the best backpacking trips in California. Here are 5 hand-picked backpacking trips from NorCal to SoCal.

1 . The Lost Coast Trail

It’s the most iconic beach trail in California. It’s also one of the wildest. You will spot elephant seals relaxing on the beach, encounter bears, and go through tricky low tide crossings. This trip is hard to plan, so check out my guide for help.

Driving time

Reservations.

Wilderness permit required year-round.

2 . Point Reyes: Coast Trail & Bear Valley Trail Loop

Explore the refreshing Northern California coast. This trail traverses the forests, grasslands, and dunes of Point Reyes National Park. The trailhead is just 40 miles north of San Francisco, which makes it the perfect weekend trip.

Campground reservations required year-round.

3 . Big Sur: Sykes Hot Springs

A classic Big Sur weekend trip reopens after a 5-year closure. Climb up through dense coastal vegetation and get rewarded with hot springs, right by your campsite! There are no reservations, so expect crowds on weekends.

No requirements. Campsites available on a first-come-first-served basis.

4 . Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion Anchorage to Prisoner’s Harbor

Hike on the site of a historical ranch on the desolate Santa Cruz Island. The island is part of the Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Santa Barbara. The place has no water, so check the NPS website for more information.

Campground and ferry reservations required year-round.

5 . The Trans-Catalina Trail

Thru-hike the popular Catalina Island off the coast of Los Angeles. The trail starts in the resort town of Avalon, but you will quickly find peace and wilderness as you travel north. Look out for the bison and foxes that roam the mountainous island.

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The Ultimate California Road Trip

Explore the golden state on a journey from san francisco to kings canyon.

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California is huge. But it’s the diverse landscapes, not just size, that make California so attractive to anyone who loves the outdoors. The short list: nine national parks (more than any other state); 840 miles of coastline with more than 1,150 public access points; and 12 distinct regions, each with its own flavor. From desert terrain to coastal mountains that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, from fertile valleys to the alpine wonderland of the Sierra Nevada, California is really one giant playground. I’m all about playing outside, so naturally I was super excited for a midsummer road trip from San Francisco, down the Central Coast, through the Central Valley, and into Kings Canyon.

Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you, “Meg has a lot of hobbies.” No argument here. I like to play. Hiking, biking, paddling, diving, aerial arts—if it’s outside and I’m moving my body, then I’m in. California, specifically the eastern Sierra, has been my personal playground for more than seven years. I can do everything I love here. All of my mountain hobbies are accessible from my front door—literally. And the activities I enjoy that aren’t mountain related? I’m just a road trip away from California’s coast, big cities, the west side of the Sierra Nevada and all the fun that comes with exploring new places. Wherever you’re from, California might just be the perfect playground for you too . For the ultimate mix of coast, mountain, cities big and small, creative culture, and local food and drink, try this itinerary. I just did it, and here’s what I found.

Stop 1: San Francisco

San Francisco will make a city person out of anyone. It has all the perks of a world-class city, plus world-class access to the outdoors. That’s why I have a soft spot for this city—and why I started my road trip there. Here’s what I recommend.

Paddle the San Francisco Bay.

Views of the bay from the shore are stunning, but to truly experience San Francisco Bay, you have to get out on the water. My trusty paddleboard made the trip, so I decided to put her seaworthiness to the test with a morning SUP sesh in the bay. Launch from McCovey Cove, near Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, for views of downtown San Francisco and Treasure Island. This launch area is known for having calm waters, but you can tip the scales in your favor by getting out in the morning before afternoon winds pick up. I wasn’t the only one enjoying the great weather and calm morning waters—I enjoyed a visit from a curious harbor seal while I was out and about. If you don’t bring your board with you everywhere in summer like I do, you can rent a kayak instead. Or, if you’re visiting Friday to Monday, opt for a 1.5-hour guided paddle with City Kayak.

Explore nature art around the city.

To see just how intertwined San Francisco is with nature, head to Wood Line in the Presidio to check out the nature art constructed by Andy Goldsworthy, whose work is featured around the city. Want to get your hands dirty with your own nature art experience? Sign up for a wild clay class at Artillery Ceramics. This local pottery studio offers clay foraging workshops at local nature reserves. Learn about gathering clay and then shape it into your own masterpiece right on the beach.

Bike the Golden Gate Bridge.

Touristy? Yes, and totally worth doing. Rent a bike and pedal all or part of the bridge. From the Presidio to the Marin County line and back is about 3.5 miles. Weekdays before 3 p.m., the pedestrian path is open to both bikes and foot traffic. After 3 p.m. and on weekends, the west side pedestrian path becomes bikes only, which makes navigating easier if you’re like me and not used to biking in cities.

Catch classic San Francisco sunset views.

Every San Francisco local has their favorite sunset spot. Lucky for me (and you), a local friend was willing to share hers. For prime sunset views of the Golden Gate Bridge, hike the Batteries to Bluffs Trail on the west side of the Presidio. This short but steep 2.3-mile hike runs along the cliff and offers multiple lookout points to see the bay, bridge, and Point Bonita Lighthouse across the water. On your way back to the trailhead, keep an eye out for banana slugs. These bright yellow slugs like to hang out on the stairs that lead down to the water at dusk.

Travel Tip: Book a room at the Lodge at the Presidio . This boutique hotel is the closest lodging to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, so you’ll be right in the heart of the action with lots of walkable access to nearby restaurants. Venturing beyond walking distance? Park your car and cruise the city using Waymo —the all-electric self-driving cabs recently piloted in the city.

Stop 2: Monterey

Take the scenic route along Highway 1 from San Francisco to explore more of the Central Coast . About three hours south of the Bay Area by car, Monterey gives a more relaxed city vibe, complete with easy beach access, delicious seaside eats, and a rad diving community.

Dive at the Breakwater.

Monterey is famous for its kelp forests and the unique marine life that thrives in that ecosystem, like sea otters, spider crabs, nudibranchs, massive sea stars, and sea lions. As a longtime diver, I’ve had this area on my list for ages, so I was stoked to spend the morning underwater with divemaster Phil from Aquarius Dive Shop . Conditions were right for a dive at the iconic Breakwater site off San Carlos Beach, where we got an up-close look at the kelp forests and a visit from a curious sea lion. Drifting through the towering kelp—which can grow to heights of 175 feet—truly felt like another world. As a diver who prides herself on maintaining good trim (horizontal orientation underwater that’s considered good form in diving), I rarely find myself looking up underwater. Thankfully, my divemaster didn’t let me miss the chance to look up and see the sunlight streaming down between the swaying kelp above me—a truly unique perspective of an already awe-inspiring ecosystem. Not a diver? The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a massive two-story kelp forest exhibit that gives visitors an underwater experience without actually going underwater.

Hang at Dust Bowl Brewing in the Wharf.

When your divemaster tells you to go to a local watering hole for fish tacos and a beer, you go. Grab dinner at Wedo’s Tacos food truck , which is parked at the Dust Bowl Brewing Company Tap Depot . The recommended fish tacos with a Taco Truck Lager (a Dust Bowl classic) did not disappoint. If you’re up for a second beer, Phil says the Therapist Imperial IPA is his dessert of choice.

Visit a local climbing gym, but make it aerial arts.

California’s sunshine makes it easy to spend all your time outdoors. But whenever I need a break from the sun, I love checking out local aerial arts classes. Sanctuary Climbing & Fitness , on the north end of the Monterey Peninsula, offers lyra and silks classes right in the climbing gym, creating a great atmosphere and community feel. Of course, climbing is also an option here if that’s more your vibe.

Travel Tip: In a place like Monterey, beachfront accommodations are the way to go. Book a room at Monterey Tides (soon to debut as Monterey Beach Hotel later this year after some exciting renovations) for a low-key spot with great beach access to relax post-adventure.

Stop 3: Big Sur

With dramatic oceanside bluffs, redwood-filled canyons, and scenic views in every direction, Big Sur has been on my list for ages, and this classic coastal drive definitely lived up to the hype. 

Drive scenic Highway 1.

This iconic stretch of highway on the California coast just north of Big Sur recently reopened, which means visitors could access most of Big Sur again while I was in the area. (As of July 2024, repairs are still in progress on the southern stretch of the highway through Big Sur 2.1 miles north of Lucia to 16.8 miles south of Dolan Point.) Take your time driving this unbelievably scenic stretch of coastline. Trust me, you’ll want to have plenty of time for stops to take pictures and marvel at the landscape.

Go on a guided hike.

As someone who hikes often and feels comfortable in the outdoors, I don’t typically have guided hikes on my radar. But if you have limited time to explore, going out with a guide can help maximize your day. Depending on the time of year, a local guide can help you fully experience Big Sur by showing you all the seasonal magic, like mushroom foraging in winter, monarch butterflies migrating through the area in fall, and wildflowers blooming in spring. For summertime, my guide Patrice had California condors and ladybugs on his mind. A Big Sur local since 1985, Patrice knows every canyon along the coast and has a lifetime of stories to share. As we drove Highway 1 toward Tan Bark Trail , he pulled over to point out a rocky crag where he’s often spotted condors. The population has grown over the years thanks to a local breeding and reintroduction program. On the trail, we plucked and ate thimbleberries right off the bushes, tasted tender wood sorrel growing on the forest floor, and peeked under logs and brush to find thousands of ladybugs that stop over in Big Sur on their annual migration. After a magical hike, grab drinks with a view at the outdoor terrace at Ventana Big Sur , followed by a bite at one of Big Sur’s newest restaurants, The Village .

Travel Tip: California’s wild spaces can be fragile and at risk of damage from human activity. That fact is especially apparent in Big Sur. When you visit, tread lightly to help protect this delicate coastal ecosystem.

Stop 4: Fresno and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

I always have a hard time saying goodbye to the California coast, but hitting the road is easier when exciting adventures await just three hours inland. With access to three national parks—Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia—all within a 90-minute drive, Fresno might just be one of the greatest gateway cities of all time. Set up base camp in the Fresno area for access to adventures in town and outdoors.

Head underground to escape the heat.

Summertime in the Central Valley is all about sunshine. When temperatures soar, escape the heat at one of Fresno’s most unique spots: Forestiere Underground Gardens . This subterranean fruit garden was a labor of love by one of Fresno’s early farmers, who tunneled below the hardpan soil to find respite from the heat for both himself and his beloved citrus trees. As a hobby gardener currently contending with high desert heat in my own garden, I can appreciate the ingenuity. The tour of the underground garden was filled with fun tidbits about this creative farming solution and the history of this region as a hub for farming in California.

Grab snacks at local fruit stands.

The California sun is exactly why Fresno and the Central Valley are known for their abundance of produce. More than half of the country’s fruit and the majority of tree nuts are grown in this region. Visiting during summer means access to the freshest fruit you can find. Stop along the Fresno County Fruit Trail or hit the Old Town Clovis Farmers Market to stock up on fresh produce to take along on the day’s outdoor adventures.

Day trip to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI).

I’ve spent a ton of time in Yosemite but only ever hiked into Sequoia & Kings Canyon from the east side of the Sierra, so I couldn’t miss the opportunity to check out the west side.

🥾 Visit the largest trees in the world. I’ve seen giant sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park, but nothing compares to the massive sequoia groves in SEKI. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180 into the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon) reopened in June 2024, so driving this 50-mile scenic route was the first order of business. Stop in Grant Grove to see the General Grant Tree , the second largest tree in the world by trunk volume at 46,608 cubic feet. (I got a chance to see the largest—the General Sherman Tree , measuring 52,508 cubic feet—when I drove south toward Giant Forest later in the day.) I am decidedly not a math person, so the stats didn’t really compute until I saw these towering trees in person. Continue on a choose-your-own-adventure drive, stopping at waterfalls, impressive rock formations, and overlooks with views of Kings Canyon and the Kings River.

🥾 Go for a hike. When you’re ready to explore on foot, hike the scenic 1.3-mile Crescent Meadow Loop . The trail takes you through a vibrant green meadow filled with wildflowers and surrounded by giant sequoia trees on all sides. This area is a hub to access lots of trails in the SEKI wilderness, including the famous High Sierra Trail , which spans nearly 70 miles one way and connects SEKI to Whitney Portal on the east side of the Sierra. If you have more time, consider a longer hike to explore more of the area, or plan ahead to get backpacking permits for a multiday trip.

Travel Tip: Time your day to make it back to the Fresno area for dinner at Trelio Food & Wine in Old Town Clovis. This local eatery serves a five-course prix fixe menu featuring all of the local food the Central Valley is famous for. The menu changes daily based on the ingredients available from local markets, farms, and foragers.

Visit California is a nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs in partnership with the state’s travel industry that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. For more information about Visit California and for a free California Official State Visitor’s Guide, go to visitcalifornia.com.

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Hiking in Yosemite National Park

6 days | embark on a hiking adventure to remember in california’s high sierra.

Follow your feet on this 6-day hiking tour that shows off the very best of Yosemite National Park. Giant sequoia trees, the massive Half Dome rock, stunning views from the top of Sentinel Dome and thunderous waterfalls of the appropriately named Mist Trail – this hiking trip covers a lot of ground in a short time. Best of all, you get to experience Yosemite with a bit of comfort, thanks to transportation to and from the trailheads and accommodation close to the park’s entrance. But this trip is more than just pretty sights – you’ll also learn about the area’s Native American heritage and pioneer past, and about the important work being done to preserve and protect the region.

Trip overview

• Enjoy an itinerary designed to show you the very best that Yosemite National Park has to offer, with an expert local leader doing all the navigating for you.
• Hike at your own comfort level with options for alternate routes and a schedule that eases you in – your first hike is an easy one, allowing you to go slow before tackling more serious trails.
• Learn about the important work being done by Yosemite Conservancy, with an educational guided walk through the historic Ahwahnee village, where you’ll learn about Native American heritage and the park’s conservation efforts.
• Take on the challenge of the Four Mile Trail to Sentinel Dome – the views from Glacier Point over Yosemite Valley are some of the very best in the park.
• Get an introduction to Yosemite National Park with a walk through the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, passing beneath (and through!) the towering trees.
• This is a hiking trip; a good fitness level will help you enjoying all included walks and activities. We will walk up to 8 miles (12.5 km) per day, with elevation gain of 1970 ft (600 m)
• Yosemite National Park boasts warm summers but be prepared for colder evenings and possibly rainy days. Good clothing and appropriate footwear are a must.
• On our final day we will reach San Francisco around 3 pm. This night’s accommodation is not included so please plan your departure accordingly, or pre-book a post-tour night.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Welcome to California! Your adventure begins in San Francisco – The City by the Bay that boasts a beautiful setting and a vibrant, multicultural heart. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an adventure cruise on the bay past Alcatraz Island.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. 

This morning, leave San Francisco behind and hit the road headed for the famous Yosemite National Park. After arriving, enjoy the first walk of your trip – an easy, downhill hike at the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. The grove is home to, no surprise, a couple dozen mature giant sequoia trees, including one that’s been carved into a tunnel you can walk right through. Of course, what goes down must come back up, but your return upward climb will be rewarded once you arrive at your accommodation. While many visitors to Yosemite stay in campsites, you’ll get to unwind at a rustic mountain lodge within a short drive to the park entrance. Settle into your home for the next few days and soak up the atmosphere.

• Lodge (1 night)
• Tuolumne Grove hike

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

The hiking distance today is a 2.5 mile (4 km) roundtrip, with 400 feet (120 m) elevation loss to the grove.

The Mist Trail is Yosemite's signature hike, and today you get to experience it for yourself. Starting from the east of Yosemite Valley you’ll cross the Vernal Fall Footbridge, make your way up granite stairways and zig-zag up rocky switchbacks. The trail gets you right up close to Vernal and Nevada Falls, so be sure to pack your rain gear as you’ll get sprayed! There are also incredible views scattered along the whole route, looking out across the valley toward the iconic Half Dome and rock formation and along the Merced River. In the evening, rest up back at the lodge.

• Mist Trail signature hike

The hiking distance today is a 7 miles (11 km) roundtrip to Nevada Fall, with an elevation gain of 1900 feet (580 m).

Today, you’ll take things up a notch with a walk along Yosemite’s Four Mile Trail. Start at the base of Sentinel Rock, then make your way to the top of Yosemite Valley. A consistent, steep gradient means the trail is certainly not a regular walk in the park, but the views of the valley, El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls from the top of Sentinel Dome are more than worth the effort. Once you’ve finished the walk, head back to your accommodation to rest up!

• Four Mile Trail to Sentinel Dome hike

The hiking distance today is 9.6 miles (15.5 km) roundtrip, with an elevation gain of 3,200 ft (975 m).

Today is slightly different, with a free morning for you to enjoy your way. Head to Yosemite Valley for more hiking on your own, or perhaps to visit local museums, rent a bike or anything else that interests you. Your tour leader will be able to help you with arrangements. In the afternoon, your group will rendezvous for an included walk with an expert guide from Yosemite Conservancy. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the important work the group does for the Native American community and preserving their culture within the park. As you walk from the historic Ahwahnee Hotel through the meadows of Yosemite Valley and past the ruins of an old pioneer village, you’ll hear Native American stories and history, and learn about Yosemite’s role in the country’s conservationist movement. Your guided walk will end at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, where your leader will be waiting to transport you back to the lodge for your final night.

• The Ahwahnee historic lodge visit
• Yosemite Valley Conservancy exclusive walk
• Yosemite Valley Bike Rental Half Day - USD30

After saying fond farewells to Yosemite, you’ll head west to vibrant San Francisco. Stop in at a local restaurant along the way for a final lunch with your group, then continue on to do a walk over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Your adventure then finishes upon arrival in San Francisco at around 3 pm. No accommodation is provided for tonight, but if you do wish to spend extra time in the city, just speak to your booking agent.

• San Francisco - Golden Gate Bridge walk

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

5 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Private vehicle

Hotel (1 night), Lodge (4 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8am on Day 1 in San Francisco. Please see Joining Point Hotel listed in the Essential Trip Information for this itinerary.

2. You are expected to arrive back into San Francisco around 3pm and dropped off at the same location as the joining point on the final day. There is no accommodation included on the last day in San Francisco, however we can request any additional nights should you need them.

3. A single supplement is available for this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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The Ultimate California Road Trip

Explore the Golden State on a journey from San Francisco to Kings Canyon

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California is huge. But it’s the diverse landscapes, not just size, that make California so attractive to anyone who loves the outdoors. The short list: nine national parks (more than any other state); 840 miles of coastline with more than 1,150 public access points; and 12 distinct regions, each with its own flavor. From desert terrain to coastal mountains that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, from fertile valleys to the alpine wonderland of the Sierra Nevada, California is really one giant playground. I’m all about playing outside, so naturally I was super excited for a midsummer road trip from San Francisco, down the Central Coast, through the Central Valley, and into Kings Canyon.

Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you, “Meg has a lot of hobbies.” No argument here. I like to play. Hiking, biking, paddling, diving, aerial arts—if it’s outside and I’m moving my body, then I’m in. California, specifically the eastern Sierra, has been my personal playground for more than seven years. I can do everything I love here. All of my mountain hobbies are accessible from my front door—literally. And the activities I enjoy that aren’t mountain related? I’m just a road trip away from California’s coast, big cities, the west side of the Sierra Nevada and all the fun that comes with exploring new places. Wherever you’re from, California might just be the perfect playground for you too . For the ultimate mix of coast, mountain, cities big and small, creative culture, and local food and drink, try this itinerary. I just did it, and here’s what I found.

Stop 1: San Francisco

San Francisco will make a city person out of anyone. It has all the perks of a world-class city, plus world-class access to the outdoors. That’s why I have a soft spot for this city—and why I started my road trip there. Here’s what I recommend.

Paddle the San Francisco Bay.

Views of the bay from the shore are stunning, but to truly experience San Francisco Bay, you have to get out on the water. My trusty paddleboard made the trip, so I decided to put her seaworthiness to the test with a morning SUP sesh in the bay. Launch from McCovey Cove, near Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, for views of downtown San Francisco and Treasure Island. This launch area is known for having calm waters, but you can tip the scales in your favor by getting out in the morning before afternoon winds pick up. I wasn’t the only one enjoying the great weather and calm morning waters—I enjoyed a visit from a curious harbor seal while I was out and about. If you don’t bring your board with you everywhere in summer like I do, you can rent a kayak instead. Or, if you’re visiting Friday to Monday, opt for a 1.5-hour guided paddle with City Kayak.

Explore nature art around the city.

To see just how intertwined San Francisco is with nature, head to Wood Line in the Presidio to check out the nature art constructed by Andy Goldsworthy, whose work is featured around the city. Want to get your hands dirty with your own nature art experience? Sign up for a wild clay class at Artillery Ceramics. This local pottery studio offers clay foraging workshops at local nature reserves. Learn about gathering clay and then shape it into your own masterpiece right on the beach.

Bike the Golden Gate Bridge.

Touristy? Yes, and totally worth doing. Rent a bike and pedal all or part of the bridge. From the Presidio to the Marin County line and back is about 3.5 miles. Weekdays before 3 p.m., the pedestrian path is open to both bikes and foot traffic. After 3 p.m. and on weekends, the west side pedestrian path becomes bikes only, which makes navigating easier if you’re like me and not used to biking in cities.

Catch classic San Francisco sunset views.

Every San Francisco local has their favorite sunset spot. Lucky for me (and you), a local friend was willing to share hers. For prime sunset views of the Golden Gate Bridge, hike the Batteries to Bluffs Trail on the west side of the Presidio. This short but steep 2.3-mile hike runs along the cliff and offers multiple lookout points to see the bay, bridge, and Point Bonita Lighthouse across the water. On your way back to the trailhead, keep an eye out for banana slugs. These bright yellow slugs like to hang out on the stairs that lead down to the water at dusk.

Travel Tip: Book a room at the Lodge at the Presidio . This boutique hotel is the closest lodging to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, so you’ll be right in the heart of the action with lots of walkable access to nearby restaurants. Venturing beyond walking distance? Park your car and cruise the city using Waymo —the all-electric self-driving cabs recently piloted in the city.

Stop 2: Monterey

Take the scenic route along Highway 1 from San Francisco to explore more of the Central Coast . About three hours south of the Bay Area by car, Monterey gives a more relaxed city vibe, complete with easy beach access, delicious seaside eats, and a rad diving community.

Dive at the Breakwater.

Monterey is famous for its kelp forests and the unique marine life that thrives in that ecosystem, like sea otters, spider crabs, nudibranchs, massive sea stars, and sea lions. As a longtime diver, I’ve had this area on my list for ages, so I was stoked to spend the morning underwater with divemaster Phil from Aquarius Dive Shop . Conditions were right for a dive at the iconic Breakwater site off San Carlos Beach, where we got an up-close look at the kelp forests and a visit from a curious sea lion. Drifting through the towering kelp—which can grow to heights of 175 feet—truly felt like another world. As a diver who prides herself on maintaining good trim (horizontal orientation underwater that’s considered good form in diving), I rarely find myself looking up underwater. Thankfully, my divemaster didn’t let me miss the chance to look up and see the sunlight streaming down between the swaying kelp above me—a truly unique perspective of an already awe-inspiring ecosystem. Not a diver? The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a massive two-story kelp forest exhibit that gives visitors an underwater experience without actually going underwater.

Hang at Dust Bowl Brewing in the Wharf.

When your divemaster tells you to go to a local watering hole for fish tacos and a beer, you go. Grab dinner at Wedo’s Tacos food truck , which is parked at the Dust Bowl Brewing Company Tap Depot . The recommended fish tacos with a Taco Truck Lager (a Dust Bowl classic) did not disappoint. If you’re up for a second beer, Phil says the Therapist Imperial IPA is his dessert of choice.

Visit a local climbing gym, but make it aerial arts.

California’s sunshine makes it easy to spend all your time outdoors. But whenever I need a break from the sun, I love checking out local aerial arts classes. Sanctuary Climbing & Fitness , on the north end of the Monterey Peninsula, offers lyra and silks classes right in the climbing gym, creating a great atmosphere and community feel. Of course, climbing is also an option here if that’s more your vibe.

Travel Tip: In a place like Monterey, beachfront accommodations are the way to go. Book a room at Monterey Tides (soon to debut as Monterey Beach Hotel later this year after some exciting renovations) for a low-key spot with great beach access to relax post-adventure.

Stop 3: Big Sur

With dramatic oceanside bluffs, redwood-filled canyons, and scenic views in every direction, Big Sur has been on my list for ages, and this classic coastal drive definitely lived up to the hype. 

Drive scenic Highway 1.

This iconic stretch of highway on the California coast just north of Big Sur recently reopened, which means visitors could access most of Big Sur again while I was in the area. (As of July 2024, repairs are still in progress on the southern stretch of the highway through Big Sur 2.1 miles north of Lucia to 16.8 miles south of Dolan Point.) Take your time driving this unbelievably scenic stretch of coastline. Trust me, you’ll want to have plenty of time for stops to take pictures and marvel at the landscape.

Go on a guided hike.

As someone who hikes often and feels comfortable in the outdoors, I don’t typically have guided hikes on my radar. But if you have limited time to explore, going out with a guide can help maximize your day. Depending on the time of year, a local guide can help you fully experience Big Sur by showing you all the seasonal magic, like mushroom foraging in winter, monarch butterflies migrating through the area in fall, and wildflowers blooming in spring. For summertime, my guide Patrice had California condors and ladybugs on his mind. A Big Sur local since 1985, Patrice knows every canyon along the coast and has a lifetime of stories to share. As we drove Highway 1 toward Tan Bark Trail , he pulled over to point out a rocky crag where he’s often spotted condors. The population has grown over the years thanks to a local breeding and reintroduction program. On the trail, we plucked and ate thimbleberries right off the bushes, tasted tender wood sorrel growing on the forest floor, and peeked under logs and brush to find thousands of ladybugs that stop over in Big Sur on their annual migration. After a magical hike, grab drinks with a view at the outdoor terrace at Ventana Big Sur , followed by a bite at one of Big Sur’s newest restaurants, The Village .

Travel Tip: California’s wild spaces can be fragile and at risk of damage from human activity. That fact is especially apparent in Big Sur. When you visit, tread lightly to help protect this delicate coastal ecosystem.

Stop 4: Fresno and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

I always have a hard time saying goodbye to the California coast, but hitting the road is easier when exciting adventures await just three hours inland. With access to three national parks—Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia—all within a 90-minute drive, Fresno might just be one of the greatest gateway cities of all time. Set up base camp in the Fresno area for access to adventures in town and outdoors.

Head underground to escape the heat.

Summertime in the Central Valley is all about sunshine. When temperatures soar, escape the heat at one of Fresno’s most unique spots: Forestiere Underground Gardens . This subterranean fruit garden was a labor of love by one of Fresno’s early farmers, who tunneled below the hardpan soil to find respite from the heat for both himself and his beloved citrus trees. As a hobby gardener currently contending with high desert heat in my own garden, I can appreciate the ingenuity. The tour of the underground garden was filled with fun tidbits about this creative farming solution and the history of this region as a hub for farming in California.

Grab snacks at local fruit stands.

The California sun is exactly why Fresno and the Central Valley are known for their abundance of produce. More than half of the country’s fruit and the majority of tree nuts are grown in this region. Visiting during summer means access to the freshest fruit you can find. Stop along the Fresno County Fruit Trail or hit the Old Town Clovis Farmers Market to stock up on fresh produce to take along on the day’s outdoor adventures.

Day trip to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI).

I’ve spent a ton of time in Yosemite but only ever hiked into Sequoia & Kings Canyon from the east side of the Sierra, so I couldn’t miss the opportunity to check out the west side.

🥾 Visit the largest trees in the world. I’ve seen giant sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park, but nothing compares to the massive sequoia groves in SEKI. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Highway 180 into the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon) reopened in June 2024, so driving this 50-mile scenic route was the first order of business. Stop in Grant Grove to see the General Grant Tree , the second largest tree in the world by trunk volume at 46,608 cubic feet. (I got a chance to see the largest—the General Sherman Tree , measuring 52,508 cubic feet—when I drove south toward Giant Forest later in the day.) I am decidedly not a math person, so the stats didn’t really compute until I saw these towering trees in person. Continue on a choose-your-own-adventure drive, stopping at waterfalls, impressive rock formations, and overlooks with views of Kings Canyon and the Kings River.

🥾 Go for a hike. When you’re ready to explore on foot, hike the scenic 1.3-mile Crescent Meadow Loop . The trail takes you through a vibrant green meadow filled with wildflowers and surrounded by giant sequoia trees on all sides. This area is a hub to access lots of trails in the SEKI wilderness, including the famous High Sierra Trail , which spans nearly 70 miles one way and connects SEKI to Whitney Portal on the east side of the Sierra. If you have more time, consider a longer hike to explore more of the area, or plan ahead to get backpacking permits for a multiday trip.

Travel Tip: Time your day to make it back to the Fresno area for dinner at Trelio Food & Wine in Old Town Clovis. This local eatery serves a five-course prix fixe menu featuring all of the local food the Central Valley is famous for. The menu changes daily based on the ingredients available from local markets, farms, and foragers.

Visit California is a nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs in partnership with the state’s travel industry that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. For more information about Visit California and for a free California Official State Visitor’s Guide, go to visitcalifornia.com.

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Best Camping in California: Our 17 Favorite Spots

Looking for an epic camping adventure in California? In our guide you’ll discover some of the most incredible campgrounds the US has to offer. From the desert wilderness to stunning coastlines, this Golden State has it all.

From majestic mountains to exceptional coastlines, California has some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

This varied landscape makes California one of the most popular camping destinations in the US. You can spend the night in ancient redwood forests or stargazing within the desert wilderness, or enjoying sumptuous views over glittering alpine lakes or the expansive Pacific Ocean. Few other locations boast such a bounty of diverse and delightful backdrops.

With 110 state parks and 19 National Forests, all filled with natural wonders, you’ll be spoiled for choice in the Golden State.

Whether you are looking for high-end glamping or a more rustic camping experience, our guide has something for everyone.

It’s time to start packing…

Save for later!!! ⤵️

Table of Contents

1. Yosemite National Park

2. joshua tree national park, 3. channel islands national park, 4. lake tahoe, 5. big bear lake, 6. ventana campground, big sur, 7. saddlebag lake campground, inyo national forest, 8. los padres national forest, 9. lassen volcanic national park, 10. bothe-napa valley state park, 11. russian gulch state park, 12. el capitan state beach, 13. crystal cove state park, 14. cold springs campground, sequoia national park, 15. emerald bay state park, 16. big basin redwoods state park, 17. minaret falls campground, best camping in california: pack your bags.

• Type: Tent & RV
• RV hook-up: No

Yosemite National Park offers some of the most coveted camping spots in the state.

Well known for its Giant Sequoia trees, towering monoliths, and breathtaking waterfalls, this park offers an adventure for everyone. You can hike through the stunning Yosemite Valley, explore the varied and accessible walks around Hetch Hetchy reservoir (look out for peregrines), or wander through the scenic Tuolumne Meadows.

Due to its popular attractions, getting a camping reservation in Yosemite can be a challenge. Luckily, there are numerous campgrounds to choose from.

Wawona campground is located at the southern end of the park, 27 miles from Yosemite Valley. This is a relatively small campground and offers the opportunity to explore the nearby historic town of Wawona and Mariposa Grove , which has over 500 giant sequoia trees to admire.

Larger campground options include Upper Pines and Tuolumne Meadows . If you are a keen backpacker, you may want to explore the five High Sierra camps , which offer the perfect opportunity to explore the wild backcountry. 

Joshua Tree National Park spans two deserts and has 800,000 acres of diverse desert wilderness to explore. 

Jumbo Rocks is the largest campground within Joshua Tree. Popular with families, this campground offers 124 campsites that are surrounded by impressively huge rock formations. A rock climber’s paradise. 

This campground is ideally positioned to explore numerous exciting hikes, including the popular Skull Rock hike. 

This 1.7-mile hike leads you through the desert landscape until you reach the iconic ‘skull rock’, which provides fantastic photo opportunities. Look out for desert wildlife along the way, including lizards, rattlesnakes, desert tarantulas, and the rarer bobcat and mountain lions .

For a quieter camping experience, you can visit White Tank Campground , which is the smallest campground in the park with 15 campsites. It offers a peaceful way to enjoy stargazing with the incredible desert dark skies.

• Type: Tent only

Santa Cruz is the largest of the 5 islands that make up Channel Islands National Park. At 96 square miles, this is the largest island in California and offers a varied terrain of canyons, cliffs, and stunning beaches to explore. It is often likened to ‘California in miniature’. 

This island is rich in both cultural history and wildlife diversity. It was occupied by Native Americans for over 100,000 years and you can still view relics of their ancient culture today. It has 600 plant species, 140 birds, and 11 land mammals. The scrub jay and island fox are particularly special as they aren’t found anywhere else. 

Scorpion Canyon campground is a ½-mile walk from the Santa Cruz pier. This beautiful campground is located in a valley overlooking the Santa Barbara Channel, close to the mountain peaks, and within easy walking distance of the beach. 

You can enjoy numerous recreational activities on this island, including hiking, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking between the islands.

Hiking trails include the 2-mile Cavern Point loop, which offers views of the island’s peaks and coast, or the 7.5-mile hike to the idyllic Smugglers Cove. 

• RV hook-up: Yes

Lake Tahoe has been named one of the best adventure locations in the US (US news and world report). Nestled within the Sierra Nevada range in Tahoe National Forest, this is the largest alpine lake in North America. It offers numerous outdoor recreational activities, in addition to a variety of culturally rich lakeside towns to explore.

Hiking trails include the 2.5-mile Spooner Lake loop and the more adventurous 9.5-mile Mount Rose trek, which climbs 2,444ft and offers panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. 

One of the most popular camping destinations in this area is Camp Richardson , which is located on the lakeshore and is close to plenty of amenities. This historic campground offers several camping sites, with tent camping options at Eagle’s Nest and Badger’s Den and an entire RV village!

If you want to escape the busyness of the lake, you could opt for the tranquil Fallen Leaf campground. This campground is nestled within the forest near Fallen Leaf Lake and is close to lots of hiking options, including the trailhead for Mt Tallac.

Located within the San Bernardino National Forest, 100 miles northeast of LA, Big Bear Lake offers an idyllic camping location . 

Big Bear is a manmade lake, which spans 7 miles long and ½ mile wide. Surrounded by an alpine forest, this area offers an excellent range of recreational options, with hiking, fishing, and water sports being favorites. 

For a gentle walk, you could explore the wildlife-rich Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk or the 1.5-mile Woodland Interpretive Trail loop. The iconic 15-mile Skyline Trail also cuts through the mountains on the south side of Big Bear and offers incredible views over the lake and Mt San Gorgonio.

There are 7 campgrounds available in the Big Bear area. One of the largest is Serrano Campground, which has over 100 campsites and is close to the Big Bear Discovery Center with easy access to the lake.

Pineknot campground is popular with families, with 48 tent and RV sites nestled within a pine and oak forest. Holcomb Valley is a much smaller and more rustic campground, with 19 tent sites available, located 5 miles north of the lake.

• Nearest town: Carmel-by-the-Sea (30 miles)

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is one of the most popular parks to visit in California and has so many amazing places to explore. 

A breathtaking location, the peaks of the Santa Lucia Mountains rise above the Big Sur River Gorge to dramatic effect. The coastal woodland habitat within Big Sur contains some of the tallest sequoia trees in the world, which grow as tall as 379ft!

This park is crisscrossed by numerous well-marked hiking trails . You can explore the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, an easy 1.3-mile route through a picturesque redwood gorge, to reach a beautiful waterfall with views over the Big Sur River valley. 

Ventana campground is one of the most popular camping locations in this area. Located within a 40-acre redwood canyon, you can revel in this glamping experience which includes hotel-worthy restrooms and hot showers. There is even an air-stream bar to offer refreshments to be enjoyed around a luxurious fire pit. 

• Nearest town: Lee Vining (13.1 miles)

At over 10,000 feet, Saddlebag Lake is the highest drive-to campground in the state of California.

This campground is located within the Inyo National Forest, which covers 2 million acres, complete with mountains, ancient trees, and alpine lakes. Altitudes range from 4,000ft to the 14,494 ft peak of Mt Whitney, which is the highest peak in the US. This national forest is also home to Mono Lake, which is one of the country’s oldest lakes at 700,000 years old. 

Saddlebag Lake Campground offers 20 campsites and is located within easy walking distance of Saddlebag Lake. This lake is a popular spot for hikers and links with the 20 Lake Basin Trail. 

This 8-mile loop allows the opportunity to explore the Hoover Wilderness and includes outstanding views of alpine lakes and the nearby peaks of Mt Conness and North peak.

At almost 2 million acres, the Los Padres National Forest is the third largest forest in California. 

This area has a wide range of landscapes to enjoy. The natural wonders range from semi-desert to coastline and include beautiful sub-alpine and riparian forests. This forest has over 468 species of fish and wildlife, including the reintroduced California condor. 

Kirk Creek Campground is conveniently located close to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, which offers opportunities to explore this area as well as the National Forest. 

Campsites are located on a bluff overlooking the glorious Pacific Ocean. An incredibly scenic location, you may even be lucky enough to spot migrating whales between November and May. 

This campground is close to numerous trails that lead into the National Forest. The Vicente Flats trailhead is located opposite this campground, which provides an opportunity to explore the Ventana wilderness. Sand Dollar Beach, which is the largest in Big Sur, is only 5 miles away and offers excellent swimming, surfing, and fishing opportunities.

There are 300 active volcanoes in the Lassen Volcanic National Park. With over 160,400 acres, you can expect to enjoy mountain lakes, waterfalls, and beautiful meadows strewn throughout this volcanic landscape. 

There are 7 campgrounds available in this park. Summit Lake South Campground is positioned centrally in the park, at the southern edge of Summit Lake. This tent-only campground is perfectly placed to explore and enjoy the 150 miles of hiking trails in this park and only 8 miles from the 10,457ft Lassen Peak, which is the largest volcano in the area.

Kings Creek Falls is a popular 2.3-mile hike to this majestic waterfall. Cluster Lakes Loop, which starts from this campground, is a 10.8-mile loop around several alpine lakes and is popular with birders. 

Other camping options include the popular Manzanita Lake Campground , which also offers cabins, and the more secluded Butte Lake Campground .

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is the perfect getaway for families looking to enjoy daytime outdoor adventure whilst having easy access to the famous fermented offerings of the area.

This 1,990-acre park contains some of the furthest inland coastal redwoods in California, with some over 100 years old. Wildlife highlights include six different species of woodpeckers, coyotes, raccoons, and mountain lions. 

This park has more than 10 miles of trails that cover a variety of terrains, many of which start from the Bothe-Napa Valley Campground. 

The short but rewarding 1.5-mile Coyote Peak Trail climbs to 1,170ft and provides expansive views over the forest and hills, including Mount Saint Helena and Upper Ritchy Canyon. 

For a tranquil walk, follow the 2.9-mile Redwood Trail, which curves around the south side of Ritcey Creek. The 1.1-mile History Trail visits the Pioneer Cemetery, where some of the original settlers are buried. This trail ends at the Bale Grist Mill State Park , where you can watch the fascinating process of grain being milled by a 19th-century water wheel. 

The Russian Gulch State Park is located in Northern California, just 2.9 miles north of Mendocino. This park has a richly varied landscape to enjoy, including coastal headlines, stunning beaches, and the scenic, forested Fern Canyon. 

You can check out the dramatic Devil’s Punch Bowl , a sinkhole formed by a collapsed sea cave, which is over 68 ft deep and 98 ft in diameter. For a refreshing dip, you can visit the popular swimming spot at the sandy cove beneath the bridge.

Another highlight is the Russian Gulch 6-mile waterfall loop, which leads through coastal woodland before reaching the 35 ft waterfall. The Redwoods Learning Center is worth a visit if you want to learn about these fascinating trees’ history and the ongoing work to protect them. 

There are 26 tent camping sites and 1 RV site available along Russian Gulf Creek, all of them a mere stone’s throw from the beach.

El Capitan State Beach is located 20 miles from Santa Barbara, just off Highway 101, and 12 miles west along the coast from Goleta. 

In addition to enjoying the numerous water sports available, it’s worth exploring the stunning tidepools at the northern end of this beach. Look out for abundant marine wildlife, including elephant seals, sea lions, and dolphins.

Hike along the cliffside for exceptional ocean views. You can follow El Capitan Creek for a peaceful hike, with the option to join the Bill Wallace Trail for a longer 10-mile hike with excellent viewpoints.

El Capitan Campground offers 199 campsites located along a scenic coastal bluff, all of which have easy access to the beach. Shaded by large sycamore trees, these sites remain relatively cool even in the hot summer months. 

You can check out the nearby Goleta Butterfly Groveto appreciate the amazing views of migratory monarch butterflies and the Nojoqui Falls Park is also worth a visit. 

Located close to the Pacific Coast Highway and just over an hour’s drive from San Diego , Crystal Cove State Park is the ideal weekend getaway for anyone based in Orange or San Diego County. 

The park comprises 2,500 acres, including 3.5 miles of coastline with 80 ft coastal bluffs. 

A popular Southern California destination for water-based recreational activities, there is a plethora of swimming, surfing, and kayaking options available along this beautiful sandy coast. 

If you are keen to explore further inland, you can follow a myriad of wooded canyon trails, including the Moro Canyon, Moro Ridge, and Red Tail Ridge trails. There is the option to explore further into the adjacent Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 

Moro Campground has 57 tent and RV sites strewn across a scenic coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

Keep your eyes peeled for a range of wildlife, including cottontail rabbits, sea hares, fence lizards, and the California kingsnake. 

• Nearest town: Three Rivers (27.2 miles)

Located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Park is any outdoor lover and hiker’s dream. With over 800 miles of hiking trails to explore, you could tackle a new trail each day for a month and still have plenty left for your next visit! 

This National Park has over 40 groves of redwood forest. You can visit the famous Giant Forest , which has the world’s largest tree, a 275-ft high and 36-ft wide sequoia tree named ‘General Sherman.’

Cold Springs Campground is located an hour and a half away from the park’s entrance. This is a beautiful, forested, high-altitude campground with 40 campsites available near the Kaweah River.

We recommend taking a hike in the subalpine Mineral King Valley. The trailheads for the valley’s 2.4-mile Cold Springs Nature Trail and more adventurous, 18.5-mile Tar Gap are located a short distance from the campground. 

• RV hook-ups: Yes

Located on Lake Tahoe’s west shore, this shallower bay is named after the lake’s sparkling green-colored water. 

Fannette Island, which is the only island in Lake Tahoe, can be accessed from here by kayak. Also well worth a visit is Vickingsholm, an 11th-century, 38-room castle located on the lake’s shore. 

This park has numerous hiking options. The popular and hugely scenic 4-mile Rubicon Trail is the pick of the bunch. For something a little easier, hop on the 1-mile Eagle Falls Trail to climb to a dramatic 90-ft waterfall that provides incredible views over the bay and Lake Tahoe. 

Eagle Point Campground is situated on a forested ridge overlooking Emerald Bay. This campground has over 100 sites and is within convenient walking distance of Lake Tahoe. Boat-in sites are also available. 

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, is the oldest state park in California. This state park is rich in natural beauty, with the highlights being its majestic redwood forests and breathtaking waterfalls. 

Popular with families, there are numerous accessible hiking options available with plenty of interpretive information. Follow the ½-mile Redwood Trail to view some of the largest redwood trees. 

Alternatively, explore the 4-mile Sequoia Trail, which connects with the Skyline to the Sea Trail, with memorable trail markers including the Sempervirens Falls, Founders Monument, and Slippery Rock. 

Blooms Creek is a popular campground that is conveniently located close to many of the park’s main attractions. For a quieter camping experience, you can try Huckleberry Campground or Wastahi walk-in campground.  

• Nearest town: Mammoth Lake (12.7 miles)

The majestic Mammoth Lakes is found within the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Perched on the edge of the Long Valley Caldera, a 20-mile-wide extinct supervolcano, this region is filled with awe-inspiring landforms. 

A popular ski destination, there are fantastic recreational opportunities all year round. 

You can enjoy the hiking trails around the famous Devils Postpile National Monument , a weird and wonderful cliff formed of columnar basalt. Another highlight is the 5-mile hike to the astounding 101ft Rainbow Falls . It’s best to visit this at midday, when the sun is at its highest, to appreciate the colorful ‘rainbow’ created by the waterfall’s mist. 

Minaret Falls Campground is situated on the eastern side of the Sierra Mountains within Reds Meadow Valley. Just 12.7 miles from Mammoth Lakes town, this popular campground is in prime position to enjoy this region’s best hikes and mountain biking trails.

The 27 campsites are situated alongside Minaret Creek, providing a peaceful camping experience. 

Camping in the Golden State is a unique experience. Its diverse landscape means there really is something for everyone. We hope our list has helped you find the perfect “something” for you!

Feel free to ask any questions about the best camping in California in the comments below. If you enjoyed this post and would like to share it with your friends, go ahead! 

Last update on 2024-08-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Molly Doubleday

Molly is a freelance writer and wildlife conservationist, based in the Scottish Highlands.

A lifelong nature lover, she has pursued a career in wildlife conservation from the age of 13. This has involved many weird and wonderful outdoor experiences, including living on a remote seabird island (where she essentially got pooed on for a living...) and trekking through ancient Caledonian pine forest in the search of the elusive capercaillie.

Hiking and wildlife watching with her faithful border collie are her favorite pastimes in the Scottish Highlands. She is keen to explore many more Scottish islands and has already ticked Arran, Skye, Eigg, and Mull off her list.

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Skip Hawaii For These 7 California Islands

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• California offers stunning islands with a Hawaiian-like charm, perfect for a beach getaway closer to home.
• Alameda Island and Santa Catalina Island provide outdoor adventures, beaches, and cultural attractions similar to Hawaii.
• Explore Angel Island's historical significance and Santa Rosa Island's secluded paradise within Channel Islands National Park.

Hawaii is a popular option for idyllic island getaways, and it’s easy to see why. The state is home to tropical places in the US that feel exotic and far away , and they capture the essence of a paradise vacation in every sense.

However, while these islands deserve the hype for their impeccable beauty, tourists don’t need to hop on long-haul flights to Hawaii, as California has spectacular islands that are excellent alternatives.

These stunning islands have Californian beaches that feel like the Hawaiian Islands and provide diverse experiences and landscapes. Not to mention, they possess a different charm from the metropolitan centers the Golden State is known for. Discover these beautiful islands in California that embody the allure of Hawaii’s magnificent shores.

10 Things To Do Near The Channel Islands: Complete Guide To California's Hidden Natural Paradise

These are the best things to do near the Channel Islands for a fun-filled, California getaway.

7 Anacapa Island

One of the five channel islands national park's islands, known for its volcanic shores and steep cliffs (it's also home to endangered brown pelicans).

Anacapa Island is part of Channel Islands National Park, boasting rugged natural beauty similar to Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. The island is famous for its steep cliffs, natural arches, and the iconic 1930s Anacapa Lighthouse , accessed via a short but beautiful trail . This historical landmark is the last permanent lighthouse along the West Coast, offering stunning photo-ops and a glimpse into the earlier way of life on Anacapa Island.

Visitors can explore the island’s network of trails, which offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. One such trail is the Cathedral Cove Hike , starting from a visitor center and leading to a scenic viewpoint with expansive views of the north coast and rocky beaches. The trail also offers opportunities to spot wildlife, including seabirds and playful sea lions seen sunning and barking along the rocky shorelines.

6 Angel Island

Served as a hunting and fishing ground for the miwok people.

Angel Island is the "Ellis Island of the West" , featuring a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This peaceful island sits in the heart of San Francisco Bay and is part of Angel Island State Park , known for its historical landmarks and scenic beauty.

Like many of Hawaii's islands, the island’s lush landscapes are perfect for hiking, with trails like the Sunset Trail leading to viewpoints with panoramic views of the bay, the city skyline, and surrounding bridges.

Angel Island’s historical significance is highlighted by its role as an immigration station in the early 20th century. Travelers can explore preserved buildings and learn about the island’s past through exhibits and guided tours at the Angel Island Immigration Museum .

From Beach To Bay: Discover The 10 Most Beautiful Ocean Getaways In The U.S.

From the sunny Florida Keys to the breathtaking island of Maui, these are the most beautiful ocean getaways in the U.S.

5 Alameda Island

An island city with a rich maritime history.

Alameda Island sits off the coast of Oakland and exudes a relaxed beach town atmosphere. It's one of the best islands in California to visit during summer , with its shoreline featuring sandy beaches and calm waters, ideal for swimming.

The Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach is one of the island's highlights, with its wide, sandy stretch and gentle surf, perfect for a day in the sun. The park also boasts picnic tables and a lawn area where younger visitors play baseball. In June, the park hosts a sandcastle and sculpture contest, welcoming participants of all ages and hundreds of spectators.

The island also has a rich World War II history best explored at the Alameda Naval Air Museum . This museum displays one-of-a-kind exhibits related to the now-closed Alameda Naval Air Station.

4 Santa Rosa Island

Features beautiful white sand beaches, rare plant species, and miles of stunning hiking trails.

Santa Rosa Island is a secluded paradise within Channel Islands National Park , offering a sense of isolation similar to Hawaii’s less-trodden spots. The island’s diverse landscapes range from pristine white sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Santa Rosa is perfect for hiking, with trails like the Water Canyon Beach Hike awaiting exploration. This trail explores a two-mile-long beach offering excellent opportunities for beachcombing, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing. However, adventurers should explore the hike when there is low tide and not too strong winds.

For a more immersive hiking adventure, travelers can tackle the Black Mountain Hike , stretching eight miles. This hike involves a long and strenuous climb with expansive vistas of the mainland, Santa Cruz Island, and even San Miguel Islands.

The Complete Guide To Visiting California's Beautiful Catalina Island

Catalina Island is one of California's most stunning offshore destinations, and here's how to experience all this beachside community has to offer.

3 Santa Cruz Island

The largest island in california with dramatic landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities.

Santa Cruz Island is the most expansive of the Channel Islands, rivaling Hawaii with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. The island boasts exceptional natural beauty with its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and secluded beaches, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Santa Cruz Island offers world-class kayaking, especially through the famous Painted Cave , one of the largest sea caves in the world, stretching 1,227 feet. The cave gets its ‘Painted’ name from its colorful walls, which get their colors from various rocks, algae, and lichens. While gliding, kayakers spot birds, harbor seals, sea lions, and marine organisms that thrive in the cave.

Away from the waters and caves, adventurers discover scenic hiking trails, such as the Potato Harbor Overlook Hike , crisscrossing the island. This moderate trail starts from Scorpion Beach and leads to an overlook with jaw-dropping coastal vistas.

2 Balboa Island

A popular vacation destination known for its pristine beaches, fun-filled boardwalk, and spectacular waterfront views.

Balboa Island offers a quintessential Southern California experience with a touch of Hawaiian charm. Nestled in Newport Beach, this island is accessible via public docks, a ferry ride, and a bridge.

On the island, travelers stroll past waterfront homes, quaint shops, and restaurants as they revel in the relaxed, beachy vibe similar to Hawaii’s coastal towns.

After working up an appetite, travelers sample some of the island’s best home-style cooking at Wilma’s Patio . This cozy eatery serves everything from flavorful mahi mahi with mango to fajitas and enchiladas made with fresh ingredients.

On the other hand, food lovers craving authentic coastal Baja cuisine with a modern twist can visit Todos Santos Restaurant , serving delicious signature dishes in a welcoming setting. The restaurant also has a brunch menu and an extensive tequila and Mezcal selection worth checking out.

1 Santa Catalina Island

Best known for its mix of outdoor adventures, from scuba diving to zip lining.

Often called Catalina, Santa Catalina Island feels like the Caribbean , and it's also a true gem reminiscent of Hawaii with its vibrant underwater ecosystem, picturesque beaches, and cultural attractions.

Located approximately 22 miles from the mainland, Santa Catalina Island offers crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving, especially at Descanso Beach , offering a similar experience to Hawaii’s stunning reefs.

The island’s rugged terrain is ideal for hiking, with trails like the Trans Catalina Trail showcasing breathtaking coastal views. This point-to-point trail stretches approximately 37.6 miles across Catalina Island, offering the perfect backpacking adventure for those seeking solitude.

Avalon, the island’s main town, exudes a laid-back vibe and is home to captivating attractions such as the Catalina Museum For Art & History . Here, history and art enthusiasts can attend events and marvel at various exhibits exploring the island’s history and rare artifacts dating from 70 years ago.